Event History:

The procession dates back to 1250. In that year, because of a strong storm, St. Louis of France risked being shipwrecked while on a ship carrying the Eucharist. The Saint survived by a miracle and landed to a beach near Brindisi, where he was welcomed by the archbishop riding a white horse. When the religious feast of Corpus Christi was instituted, Brindisi citizens decided to commemorate the episode.

Patron Saint History:

Louis IX of France (St. Louis IX), who was regarded as an exemplary king, carried out a policy of peace and pacific agreements. Because of his reputation, he was highly estimated in foreign countries, where he was called to resolve several international controversies. The future Saint took part in two crusades during which he was imprisoned and then set free for a ransom. He died from plague in 1270 in Tunis. Louis IX is regarded by historians as the only one who managed to transmit the spirit of crusades to people. He was canonized in 1297 by Pope Boniface VIII.