What Is the Festa della Salute in Venice?

Every year on November 21st, Venice celebrates the Festa della Salute, one of the city’s most evocative religious and cultural traditions. The event dates back to the 17th century, when Venice, struck by a devastating plague, turned to Our Lady of Health with a vow of devotion and gratitude.

The construction of the Basilica of Santa Maria della Salute, standing at the entrance of the Grand Canal, was the fulfillment of that vow and today remains the heart of the celebration.

This baroque masterpiece is instantly recognizable thanks to its massive octagonal dome and the rich sculptural decorations that adorn its façade. Inside, the bright and harmonious interior houses works by renowned artists such as Titian and Tintoretto, whose paintings dedicated to the Virgin and the patron saints embellish the altars and chapels. The interplay of architecture and art makes the basilica not only a place of worship but also an open-air museum of baroque Venice.

The celebration is marked by a pilgrimage of Venetians to the basilica: a gesture of faith and hope repeated for centuries. Visitors can witness a unique atmosphere as lines of worshippers cross the temporary votive bridge built especially for the occasion.

Beyond its religious value, the Festa della Salute is also a chance to experience Venice away from its busiest tourist routes , to live the city like a true Venetian, between tradition, spirituality and culture.

For those who wish to take part, the best moment to visit is on the morning of November 21st, when the celebration reaches its peak and the city comes alive with an authentic, heartfelt atmosphere.

Taking part in the Festa della Salute means not only admiring Venice’s architectural beauty, but also immersing yourself in a centuries-old tradition that tells the story of a resilient city, deeply connected to its faith and its people.