Pompei marked the 151st anniversary of the arrival of the Madonna del Rosario image on 13 November 2026 with the traditional descent of the Sacred Icon and the noon Supplica.
The icon was brought down from its usual position above the main altar of the sanctuary, placing it physically closer to pilgrims for veneration. Pilgrims began arriving at the sanctuary from 6 a.m., according to Metropolis Web.
Cardinal Angelo Bagnasco, archbishop emeritus of Genoa, presided over the Supplica at noon before the Sacred Icon, according to Il Mattino. Thousands of pilgrims were present.
Addressing the gathered faithful, Bagnasco said, “In voi vedo l’Italia intera ai piedi della Madonna di Pompei” (“In you I see all of Italy at the feet of the Madonna of Pompei”). His message centred on prayer for families, children, young people, older people, the sick and people experiencing loneliness.
The annual descent is a major devotional rite that draws worshippers from Campania and from outside Italy, according to Lo Strillone. The 2026 celebration marked 151 years since the image’s arrival in Pompei in 1875.
