Between sacred and profane: 5 folkloric events in Sicily
Citymap SiciliaSicily, a land rich in folklore, ancient traditions, and profound devotion, reflects in its essence the various historical and cultural nuances, as well as the influences of dominations that have shaped it over the centuries. Among popular festivals, millennia-old rituals, and religious traditions, the cultural identity of the island manifests itself in all its richness and diversity.
Join us in discovering 5 folkloric events that make our island a magical and diverse place!
The most characteristic religious festivals, folkloric events, and popular traditions in Sicily
U Quadrittu, a religious festival in Saponara
“U Quadrittu”, in Saponara, in the province of Messina, is a unique event that takes place between the 7th and 8th of December, coinciding with the celebrations of Saint Nicholas and the Immaculate Conception. This extraordinary celebration, blending folklore and religion, brings to life the fascinating story of the charcoal burners’ rebellion against the social marginalization of the powerful of the time. An unmissable experience that celebrates the recognition and identity assertion of a community that played a fundamental role in the economic growth of the Peloritan center.
Mario D’Alfonso ph
The Pastorale di Nardu in Santa Elisabetta
The “Pastorale di Nardu” in Santa Elisabetta, in the province of Agrigento, is an exciting journey through time, one of the oldest folkloric events on the island that transports visitors to the heart of authentic Sicily. On January 6th, the day of Epiphany, faith merges with folklore in an extraordinary mime representation that brings to life pastoral life and work in the fields.
Giuseppe Parlato
U Ballu di Diavuli in Prizzi
“The Dance of the Devils” is an extraordinary festival that takes place on Easter Sunday in the municipality of Prizzi, in the province of Palermo. This event combines sacred and profane elements, becoming one of the most characteristic celebrations of Easter in Sicily. Its origins date back to ancient pagan celebrations dedicated to Spring and the rebirth of nature, which over time have been influenced by popular traditions and Christian interpretations. The result is a unique spectacle, in which the Dance of the Devils becomes the stage for a symbolic struggle between Good and Evil, culminating in the victory of Good represented by the resurrection of the risen Christ.
Mario Cuccia ph
U Pisci a Mari in Acitrezza
Every year, on the 24th and 25th of June, Acitrezza comes to life to celebrate its patron saint, San Giovanni Battista, with a tradition that dates back to the distant 1750s: the pantomime of the fish to the sea, known as “u pisci a mari”. This evocative parody engagingly recreates the swordfish fishing that took place in ancient times in the Strait of Messina, symbolizing for the people of Acitrezza the ongoing struggle with nature to survive in a land where the sea offers life and sustenance.
acicastello.turismo.comunelive.it
The festival of Muzzuni in Alcara Li Fusi
On June 24th, in Alcara Li Fusi, in the province of Messina, “U Muzzuni” represents one of the oldest traditions in Italy, with roots dating back to Hellenic civilization. This ancient rite, deeply rooted in peasant tradition, once marked the beginning of the Summer Solstice, but today it is closely linked to celebrations in honor of Saint John the Baptist. “U Muzzuni” is a striking fusion of pagan and Christian elements, a propitiatory rite that evokes the fertility of the soil and youthful vitality.