Feast of the Stella Maris

Every first Sunday in August, the picturesque Ligurian village of Camogli lights up with excitement and spirituality for the evocative Stella Maris Festival, a celebration dedicated to Our Lady “Star of the Sea,” the patron saint of sailors. The tradition has its roots in the 4th century, when an ancient mosaic depicting the Virgin was found in the small church of St. Nicholas of Capodimonte.

The day begins with the roar of a cannon shot announcing the departure of the Dragun, the historic boat that carries the pastor to the Marian altar located at Punta Chiappa. The Dragun is followed by a picturesque procession of festively decorated boats, creating a unique marine procession.

The most magical moment comes as night falls: the Dragun and a myriad of canoes and kayaks, each with a flashlight tied to the stern, parade past the beach in a slow light procession. At the shore, participants light and entrust hundreds of floating torches to the sea, which transform the surface of the water into a flickering light show, creating an atmosphere of great suggestion and recollection.

A not-to-be-missed event of faith, sea and tradition that unites the community and enchants visitors of all ages.

Ph. Valeria Trompetto