San Vicente Ferrer: history, miracles and traditions in Valencia
The city of Valencia celebrates with great devotion the feast of San Vicente Ferrer, one of its most beloved patron saints and a key figure in the religious and cultural history not only of the city, but also of Europe.
Who was Saint Vincent Ferrer?
Saint Vincent Ferrer was born in Valencia in 1350 into a wealthy family. He entered the Dominican Order and soon distinguished himself as a preacher, philosopher and theologian. During his lifetime, he travelled much of Europe - including Italy, France, Switzerland and even Scotland - spreading his message of spiritual reform, justice and reconciliation.
He is known for his multilingual preaching ability, his powerful oratory and the thousands of conversions his sermons brought about. He was canonised in 1455, just 36 years after his death.
Traditions in Valencia
In Valencia, every Monday following the second Sunday of Easter, the festival is celebrated with processions, masses and popular events. One of the most unique elements are the «St. Vincent's altars», small stages set up in different parts of the city where children act out miracles attributed to the saint, known as «miracles».
The performance is in Valencian, and is considered one of the oldest theatrical traditions in Europe that is still alive today.
Miracles of St. Vincent Ferrer
Hundreds of miracles are attributed to St. Vincent Ferrer, both during his lifetime and after his death. Among the best known:
- The miracle of the well: He saved a child who had fallen into a well, pulling him out safely after a prayer.
- The miracle of the mute: It is said to have restored speech to a child who could not speak.
- Food multiplication: On several occasions, he is reported to have multiplied bread and other provisions to feed the poor.
These miracles are re-enacted on the altars every year by the child actors.
Places linked to San Vicente Ferrer in Valencia
- Natalicia House: In what is now Calle del Mar, where you can visit a chapel built on the exact spot where he was born.
- Church of San Esteban: Where he was baptised and where, according to tradition, his first signs of holiness began to manifest themselves.
- Pouet de San Vicent: In Llíria, a nearby town, there is a well where, according to tradition, the saint worked the miracle of saving a child.
Programme of the Festivities of San Vicente Ferrer 2025 in Valencia
If you would like to experience first-hand the most authentic traditions of Valencia, take note of the programme of the most important events:
🗓️ 12 AprilPresentation of the Official Book of the Vincentian Festivities in the Casa Natalicia de San Vicente Ferrer.
🗓️ 22nd to 24th AprilMilacres“ competition at the Territorial Delegation of the ONCE.
🗓️ 25 April: Prize-giving ceremony of the «Milacres» in Lo Rat Penat.
🗓️ 26 April: Performance of the winning «Milacre» in the Plaza de la Virgen.
🗓️ 27 AprilTraditional fireworks display in the Plaza de la Reina.
🗓️ 28 AprilSan Vicente Ferrer's big day:
- 10:00 h: Solemn Pontifical Mass in the Cathedral.
- 12:00 h: Civic procession and floral offering from the Town Hall to the Casa Natalicia.
👉 You can find more details in the official programme here.
San Vicente Ferrer is not only a religious symbol, he is part of the soul of Valencia. If you visit the city at this time of year, you will experience a unique atmosphere of devotion, culture and history.
In addition, in Valencia & Go We organise specialised tours where our guides will help you discover both the figure of St. Vincent and many other secrets of the city.
Check out our tours here: https://www.valenciaandgo.com/tours
And get ready to experience the most authentic Valencia!