Madonna delle Grazie feast observed on July 2 in Italy

The Catholic Church marks July 2 as the day devoted to the title Madonna delle Grazie (Our Lady of Grace). Although not an official liturgical feast, the celebration is rooted in ancient devotion dating back to around the 5th century and is linked to the biblical Wedding at Cana. Throughout Italy, many towns and sanctuaries honour the Madonna of Grace on this date, often associating the observance with the Feast of the Visitation on May 31 or, in some locales, with the Nativity of Mary on September 8.

In addition to the Marian celebration, the same day also commemorates Saint Swithun of Winchester, an Anglo‑Saxon bishop remembered for his piety and care for the poor. His feast, traditionally invoked for the ending of rain, falls on July 2, intertwining the two religious observances in the liturgical calendar.