The beautiful Procession of Our Lady of Portosalvo

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Emanuela Esposito

Emanuela Esposito is a curious traveler and passionate writer with a deep knowledge of the historical and natural beauty of southern Italy. Originally from Campania, Emanuela has always had a strong connection with her land and has dedicated her life to exploring its most fascinating secrets.

In her role as author on Movery.it, Emanuela shares carefully planned itineraries, travel tips and engaging tales that transport readers to the wonders of Campania and Puglia. Her vivid descriptions and breathtaking photographs offer an authentic view of the experiences to be had in these regions.

In addition to her passion for travel, Emanuela loves to immerse herself in local culture, participating in traditional festivals and food and wine tastings. Her writing reflects her infectious enthusiasm for discovery and sharing new adventures, making her a go-to figure for all travel lovers.

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In the late summer Ascea becomes the setting for the main local festival. It is the Procession in honor of the Our Lady of Portosalvo organized on August 27 each year, a distinctive and very special event that takes place among the waters of the sea. Highly evocative and exciting, this local tradition involves locals and vacationers, who enthusiastically participate in the beautiful celebration. For the year 2021, the procession will unfortunately not be held due to the restrictions for covid-19, the statue of Our Lady will be placed in Europa Square where the mass will be held. Let's see how this important celebration is usually held.

The charm of the festival in honor of Our Lady of Portosalvo

Nestled in the enchanting scenery of the Cilento Park, in the province of Salerno, Ascea dominates from the top of the hill where it stands, its Marina, which ranks among Cilento's most popular destinations for beach tourism. The beautiful coastline of sandy shores is lapped by a crystal clear sea. It is among the waves of this azure sea that the feast of Our Lady of Portosalvo is celebrated every year. The statue of the Virgin is placed on a boat while the faithful settle on other boats the and accompany her with devout songs. The procession moves near the coast, from Velia to the rocks of the Telegraph Tower and then turn back. Along the way, wreaths of flowers are thrown into the sea, enriching its waters with color. Near the church of the same name, the procession continues overland through the old town and back to the beach.

For the people of Ascea this feast is a very important event. During the days leading up to the celebration, in fact, the houses and streets are decorated with flowers, as well as balloons, ribbons and streamers that recall the colors of Our Lady's robe (blue and white). The boats that take part in the procession are also decorated in the same way. The beach becomes populated with people admiring this incredible spectacle, cheering when the statue of Our Lady returns from its procession.

Folklore and tradition fascinate tourists who, during the morning of August 27, take advantage of the fair held in the streets of the city center. Organized on the occasion of the festival, souvenirs and local products can be purchased among its stands.

In the evening, however, all the streets are illuminated with the beautiful lights that make the special patronal festival more "classical" but no less welcome, which, like all, ends with a fireworks display.

Trivia about Our Lady of Portosalvo and her feast day

Our Lady of Portosalvo is one of the many titles by which the Virgin Mary, mother of Jesus, is celebrated. Dressed in white and blue, Our Lady of Portosalvo is venerated by the people of the sea as their patroness. The feast is also particularly felt in Calabria, and there are many other coastal areas in southern Italy that have always perpetuated this ancient tradition. The celebrations in honor of Our Lady of Portosalvo and the related procession are conducted in similar ways among the various areas of Southern Italy.