Night of fire festival

The night sky is lit up in an explosion of light, colour and sound in honour of the city's patron saint.  This celebration dates back to the middle ages when families honoured the Virgin Mary by setting off a rocket for each of their children to bring good health and fortune.  

Today it's one of the most amazing pyrotechnic displays which lasts for about one hour, consisting of over 2,000 kilos of gunpowder and 70,000 rockets.  A few minutes before midnight is the most dramatic when the "Palm of the Virgin" is launched from the Basilica reaching up to 300 metres into the air lighting up the whole city, really spectacular.

• 13th of August 2024