Join us this Saturday evening from 8 PM in the Port of Nice district for the celebration of Saint Peter, a medieval tradition that honors the patron saint of fishermen.
In Nice, where the sea has always played an important role (it is the only maritime outlet of the House of Savoy), fishermen venture out to sea to bring back the fish that will feed their families and supply the “Marine” market or Saint-François Square.
Since the Middle Ages, in order to protect themselves from the fury of the elements and to invoke the mercy of Heaven, they placed themselves under the protection of Saint Peter. Once a year, they honor their patron saint by organizing an emotional procession.
In the evening, the fishermen’s guild gathers, burns the boat of the poorest among them, and offers him a new one. Nowadays, the tradition is continued in the Port district.
The festivities will begin at 8 PM with a mass at Notre-Dame du Port Church, followed by the Fishermen’s Procession from the church to the Entrecasteaux quay and the boarding of the statue of Saint Peter, the priest, and the officials on the “Triton.”
This will be followed by a wreath-laying at sea in tribute to the lost fishermen and sailors, a boat parade, and the burning of the boat.
The evening will conclude with folk dances and a friendly drink.
