THE “LUMINARIA OF SAN DOMENICO” IN PRAIANO

So, during the days before the feast (on August 4), the square (Piazza San Gennaro) in front of the Church of San Gennaro in Vettica Maggiore, a village of Praiano, is illuminated with about 2000 candles that cover the ceramic floor tiles.
It will be a unique experience: young people from Praiano “the guys of Luminaria” placed along the perimeter of the majolica floor, start lighting up many candles with the help of a torch.
Soon the atmosphere will be magical and evocative, thanks to the musical background together with the sound of church bells and a spectacular view over the gulf.

As you will understand, the fire and the light have a starring role in this event that recalls an ancient legend: Giovanna, San Domenico’s mother, pregnant with the Saint, dreamed about a dog with a torch in its mouth getting away from her. The dog was the symbol of loyalty, meanwhile the torch represented the ardor of charity with which San Domenico would inflame the world becoming the faith’s spokesman.

The “Luminaria of San Domenico” is a good opportunity to spend a special night and get carried away by the popular traditions of Praiano in a unique and evocative atmosphere. Every year this event welcomes great international artists and for the 2021 edition, Vesta, a fire artist, has had a starring role with his dances and choreographies. Well, you should experience this event at least once in a lifetime.