Feast of Saint Vincent the Martyr
Experience the tradition of Valencia's patron saint through processions, the solemn pealing of bells, and the story of a martyrdom that defines our identity.
Saint Vincent the Martyr, the patron saint of the city of Valencia
Every January 22nd, Valencia celebrates Saint Vincent the Martyr, a deacon who suffered martyrdom in the 4th century. Historically, the scope of this celebration was marked by the boundary crosses, which in the Middle Ages acted as geographical limits: "from the crosses inward" was where the patron saint held festive jurisdiction. It is a moment of unity where the streets of the historic center become the stage for a thousand-year-old devotion that marks the beginning of the city's festive calendar.
Origin of the festival
The festival was born from the testimony of faith of Saint Vincent, who was brought to Valencia to be tried and martyred. Since the Reconquest by Jaume I, his cult has been established as a pillar of Valencian identity, linking his figure to key locations such as his prison or the Cathedral itself. For 5 centuries he was considered the martyr of the West, and Valencia became the final destination of the most important pilgrimage route in all of Europe.
Festival Events
The celebrations take place on January 21st and 22nd. On the occasion of this festival, the Archdiocese will also celebrate the Octave of Prayer for Christian Unity, gathering various denominations in an agenda full of events.
Eve of the festival: January 21st
The celebrations begin with the Mozarabic Rite Masses at the Parish of Saint Vincent the Martyr (Calle Ermita, 1), the only mass of its kind (along with Toledo) celebrated in Spain, and the solemn announcement of the festival. In the afternoon, the veneration of the column where, according to tradition, the saint was tied, will take place at the Parish of El Salvador and Santa Mónica, accompanied by the great pealing of bells from the Cathedral marking the start of the festivities.
January 22nd: The General Procession
Following the Solemn Pontifical Mass at the Cathedral, the General Procession begins at 11:30 AM. The pealing of the bells announces the departure of the "Anda" (the processional float) of the Saint's statue through the Iron Gate (Puerta de los Hierros). The image of Saint Vincent the Martyr travels through the center of Valencia for two hours, passing through Plaza de la Reina, Calle de la Mar, Avellanes, Calle del Palau, and Plaza de L’Almoina before returning to the Cathedral. It is a parade full of faith where the fervor of the Valencian people accompanies their patron saint through the historical sites of his martyrdom.
Saint Vincent the Martyr throughout the year
Discover the history of the Saint. A fascinating journey through Valencian identity, available at any time of the year.
Archaeological Crypt of the Prison of Saint Vincent the Martyr
Explore one of Valencia's most sacred spaces. This crypt preserves remains of the Visigothic Prison of Saint Vincent, where the saint suffered captivity. You can admire one of the finest funerary chapels of the era and archaeological remains that narrate centuries of Valencian history. A place of silence and reflection, essential for understanding the origins of our culture.
Manual bell ringing: World Heritage
On the occasion of the festival, the Cathedral's Bell Ringers Association will perform manual ringings from the Miguelete tower, a tradition recognized by UNESCO. If you want to experience this unique event live, you can request a spot. Please note that space in the bell tower is limited, and there are only 25 spots available for each ringing.
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