Patron Saint of Milan

National Holidays in Italy Regional Holiday in Italy

Milan, View on Royal Palace

When is the Feast of Saint Ambrose?

This holiday is always celebrated on 7 December.

History of the Feast of Saint Ambrose

Saint Ambrose was an archbishop of Milan during the 4th century.

He became an important ecclesiastical figure of his time and was one of the four original doctors of the Church.

Saint Ambrose was sometimes known as the 'Honey-Tongued Doctor'. He got this nickname from the story that when he was a baby, it was said that a swarm of bees started crawling around his mouth. However instead of stinging him they left honey on his lips.

This tale also explains why in addition to Milan, he is the patron saint of beekeepers and candle makers.

How is the Feast of Saint Ambrose celebrated?


The fair takes the form of a street market arranged around the Saint's Basilica, offering everything from antique stalls and buskers to roast chestnuts and candy floss.


The Saint's day also coincides with the opening of the season of the world famous Milan La Scala Opera.

Translate this page