Papieże o św. Januarym i Neapolu

Vatican News reports that Saint Januarius died a martyr for his faith in 305 near the Solfatara volcano close to Naples. According to tradition, a woman at the scene collected his flowing blood into vials that are now kept in the Naples Cathedral.

The blood, which is typically coagulated, liquefies three times a year on September 19, the first Sunday in May, and December 16. The first historical mention of this miracle dates back to 1389. Local tradition views the liquefaction as a sign of coming prosperity.