The shadow of San Gennaro – Naples, Italy

San Gennaro and his ostensorium in the cathedral of Naples, Italy on 19 September 2016

San Gennaro and his ostensorium in the cathedral of Naples, Italy on 19 September 2016

The liquefaction of the blood of San Gennaro, an event known as ‘il prodigio‘, happens three times a year in Naples, Italy … at least it should.  This December on the last, and least high profile, of these occasions for 2016, San Gennaro’s blood did not liquefy.

There are many in Naples who will see this as an ominous sign for the city.

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2015: Pope Francis to spend whole day in Naples, Italy

San Gennaro, patron saint of Naples, being positioned for the Pope's visit

San Gennaro, patron saint of Naples, being positioned for the Pope’s visit

Popes do visit Naples but not often and usually their presence is connected with some disaster in the city.

This time Pope Francis has chosen to spend a day here and he’ll include one of Naples’ most troubled suburbs – Scampia.

I was in Naples today with less than 24hours until the Pope’s arrival.

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