The Festa della Salute is probably the least “touristy” of the Venetian festivities and evokes strong religious feelings among the city’s inhabitants. The holiday is, like the Redentore, in memory of another bout of pestilence, which lasted for two years from 1630-31, and the subsequent vow by the Doge to obtain the intercession of the Virgin Mary. Even today, on November 21, thousands of people cross the votive bridge and reach the majestic Salute Church to give thanks and ask the Virgin Mary to keep them in good health.