STELLA MARIS ET SANT JOAN DE LA MAR

This age-old tradition is strongly rooted in Vias' identity. During this celebration, the town brings the legend of the miraculous ancient Virgin back to life. According to the texts, this legend revolves around the statue in the church of St. John the Baptist, a work that was brought by Syrian sailors during a shipwreck. During the storm, they would have taken a vow to offer the Virgin they were carrying on board to the first sacred city they would encounter during their voyage if they survived. The storm calmed down immediately and they arrived on the beach of Vias with the offering, which was then given to the priest. It is to this "Stella Maris" that people still turn in difficult times. The celebration pays homage to her and enlivens the seaside resort for two days: medieval banquet, fireworks show and the arrival of the "Ancient and Miraculous Virgin", fire ritual dances, Sunday mass in the church of St. John the Baptist, etc. It is an event that allows you to immerse yourself completely in the history and traditions of the city.