The miracle of Bolsena
olsena is the ancient Etruscan city
gave the name to the lake. In 1263, in the church of "Santa Cristina", supposedly
happened the so called "Miracle of Bolsena", of a great importance for the catholic
religion.
Bohemian priest on his way to Rome, whilst
celebrating mass in St. Christine church, had doubts about the Transsubstantiation, that
is the incarnation of Christ in the Host. But at the moment of consecration the Host began to
bleed profusely. At time being Pope Urban 4th stayed in neraby Orvieto. He declared the
happening as a miracle and one year later instituted the feast of "Corpus Domini" one of the
most important religious celebrations. Bolsena recalls this day by a feast adorning its lanes
in the old city with a mile long flower carpet. Almost the whole population of the town takes
part in the preparation.
