Chenille Weaves – Saint Joseph's Altar

An altar of fabric, faith, and memory in Campobello di Mazara

In the village of Campobello di Mazara, in the province of Trapani, devotion to Saint Joseph is expressed each year through a collective work of rare beauty. The "Chenille Weaves" initiative, promoted by the Pro Loco Unpli of Campobello di Mazara and its hamlets with the patronage of the Municipality, revives the ancient Sicilian tradition of Saint Joseph's Altars, set up to fulfill a vow or thank the Saint for a grace received.

Chenille blankets and bridal veils

What makes the display truly special are the materials. The altar is composed of precious chenille blankets, a soft, velvety fabric that many local families once received as part of their dowry and cherished as a valuable heirloom. These are joined by over 150 bridal veils, devoutly lent by the town's women to create the altar's characteristic canopy. The work is dedicated to the memory of the spouses Baldassare Stallone and Girolama Giorgi, master altar-makers for over half a century, whose legacy is carried on today by their daughter Rosetta Stallone and generations of volunteers.

The ritual of the "tuppuliata" and the Saints' Supper

The central moment falls on Palm Sunday. After the blessing of the palms and the procession of the Saints toward the mother church for Holy Mass, the community returns to the altar for the evocative ritual of the "tuppuliata", the symbolic knocking on the door that precedes entry to the banquet. This is followed by the "Saints' Supper", featuring the traditional 101 dishes prepared and offered by the citizens of Campobello di Mazara, in a communal feast that lasts throughout the afternoon.

A heritage open to all

In the following days, the altar remains open to the public for free, welcoming curious visitors, the faithful, and school groups. "Chenille Weaves" is not just a religious event: it is a living narrative of domestic craftsmanship, material culture, and the sense of community that animates this corner of Western Sicily, between the Belice valley and the sea of Tre Fontane.

• Municipality: Campobello di Mazara
• Province: Trapani (Sicily)
• Location: former Church of the Addolorata
• Organizer: Pro Loco Unpli of Campobello di Mazara
• Period: Palm Sunday (March/April)