Prato celebrates Nativity of Mary with display of Sacra Cintola relic

In Prato, Italy, the annual celebration of the Nativity of Mary included the traditional ostension of the Sacra Cintola, a relic believed to be the belt of the Virgin Mary. The event marks a significant moment of religious and civic identity for the community.

During the festivities at the Prato Cathedral, Mayor Matteo Biffoni presented ceremonial candles to Bishop Giovanni Nerbini. This gesture, a long-standing tradition, is intended to illuminate the chapel housing the relic. Mayor Biffoni emphasized that the relic serves as a symbol of unity, acting as a bond for both religious believers and the secular community.

The Sacra Cintola, described as a fine strip of greenish wool interwoven with gold thread, has been central to Prato's history for centuries. Local tradition holds that the relic was brought to the city in the 12th century by a man named Michele, who reportedly received it in the Holy Land. The relic is housed in the Chapel of the Cintola within the Cathedral of Santo Stefano.