With the Bravade, Fréjus revives the soul of its traditions
Every year, on the third Sunday after Easter, Fréjus dons its finest festive attire, adorned in white and red, to honor with passion and devotion its patron saint, François de Paule.
For four days, under the watchful eye of the Fréjus maintenance associations, the entire city vibrates to the rhythm of the celebrations. This festival is not simply a festive event: it embodies the living soul of the Fréjus people.
The Bravade brings together residents in a spirit of sharing and fervor. The city expresses its gratitude, faithful to its traditions, while praying for protection in the coming year. Fréjus does not only celebrate its past, it revives the essence of its Provençal culture. Each Bravade reflects the deep values of the city.
The Savior of Fréjus
At the end of the 15th century, Fréjus was hit by an epidemic of the Black Death which ravaged the population, leaving the survivors with two options: confine themselves to their homes or flee to the surrounding countryside.
An apostle of Charity, Francis of Paola left his native Calabria to answer the call of Pope Sixtus IV and go to the King of France. However, upon arriving in Marseille, his ship was forced to turn back, the port being closed due to the plague raging on the Provençal coast. After being rejected everywhere, the boat finally docked at the small port of Bormes-les-Mimosas, where Francis performed his first miracle in Provence. The monk and his companions then continued on their way to Fréjus, an ancient Roman port city. In the deserted streets, where a deathly silence reigned, Francis met a woman, Misé Bertole, to whom he asked the reason for this desolation. “It’s the plague,” she replied.
Filled with compassion, the saint then implores divine Mercy for this city so harshly tried. His prayer is answered, and the plague will never again strike Fréjus.
The devotion of the people of Fréjus to their patron saint will continue through the centuries. The motivations of the Bravadeurs may vary, but their commitment and gratitude to Saint Francis of Paola remain unwavering.
Charity Humility.
A little more about Bravade
The Bravade of Fréjus is an ancient tradition honoring Saint Francis of Paola, savior of the city. Every year, on the third Sunday after Easter, Fréjus is adorned with white and red. For four days, the festivities bring the city to life thanks to local associations. A key moment is the reconstruction of the meeting between Misié Bertole and Saint Francis on the forecourt of the cathedral. After the mass, the panegyric and the votive procession cross the historic center. The Mayor renews the vow of 1720 before the release of the dove. The musket fire and Provençal costumes reinforce the emotion.
What are the key moments of the Bravade and when do the main processions take place?
The key moments of the Bravade de Fréjus take place over four days, with major events each day. Saturday marks one of the highlights, when the effigy of Saint Francis of Paola arrives by sea, followed by a large procession in the city. On Sunday, a solemn mass is celebrated, accompanied by a parade of Bravadeurs in the streets of the historic center, to the sound of drums and fifes.
Can visitors participate in Bravade events or wear traditional costumes?
Visitors are welcome to attend the Bravade events and immerse themselves in the festivities. However, active participation, especially as a Bravadeur, is generally reserved for members of brotherhoods or local associations involved in the organization. As for traditional costumes, they are worn by the official Bravadeurs, but visitors may, if they wish, wear Provençal outfits to participate in the festive atmosphere. Spectators can also take part in the processions as faithful and follow the procession in a spirit of devotion and respect.
What are the cultural and religious aspects of Bravade that make it unique compared to other Provençal festivals?
The Bravade of Fréjus is distinguished by the strong religious and historical dimension that accompanies it. Unlike other Provençal festivals, it pays special homage to Saint François de Paola, who is known for having saved the city from the plague in the 15th century. The Bravade combines religious fervor, with solemn processions and masses, with popular traditions such as costumed parades, musket firing, and fife and drum music. This festival embodies both the spiritual bond of the inhabitants with their patron saint and the military heritage of the city, once defended by local militias. This unique blend of faith, history, and Provençal culture gives the Bravade its singular character, deeply rooted in the Fréjusian identity.
A little more of Fréjus
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