Feast of Saint Anastasia (Patron Saint)

One of the most heartfelt patronal festivals in the Catania area

The Feast of Saint Anastasia is the most significant religious and identity-defining event in Motta Sant'Anastasia, a small village perched around its famous Norman tower in the province of Catania, Sicily. Dedicated to Saint Anastasia of Sirmium, the town's patron saint, the festival blends deep popular devotion, medieval allure, and the pride of the town's three historic districts.

History: From Christmas to August 25th

The cult of Saint Anastasia in Motta dates back to the 15th century, when a relic of the Saint arrived in the village. Traditionally venerated on December 25th, the celebration was moved to August 25th in 1750, giving rise to the summer festival that still draws faithful and visitors today. In 1971, the medieval-style re-enactments that characterize the festivities were codified, and in 2011, the Ministry of Tourism recognized the event as a Heritage of Italy for tradition.

The three districts and the ceremonial candles

The beating heart of the festival is the three districts (Rioni) into which the town is divided: Maestri, Vecchia Matrice, and Panzera. Each district carries its own richly decorated cerei (ceremonial candles) on their shoulders, parading through the village streets and performing traditional ballate (dances) in Piazza Umberto I, accompanied by marching bands and spectacular fireworks.

Quartine, processions, and historical pageant

• Sacred Triduum in the Mother Church, during which the districts bring their quartine—the banners emblematic of each district—along with devotional garments, for a blessing.
• Historical descent of the quartine, featuring a medieval costume pageant, culminating in the procession of the Saint's relics preceded by the districts in devotional attire.
• Procession of the statue of Saint Anastasia through the town's three districts.
• Historical-folkloric pageant along the main streets of the village, followed by the final Mass and the concluding procession with a grand fireworks display.

Festa Piccola and Festa Ranni

The festival takes two forms. The Festa Piccola is the annual celebration held every year around August 25th. Every four years, however, Motta Sant'Anastasia hosts the Festa Ranni (the "Great Feast") in its most solemn and spectacular version: the last edition was held in 2023 and the next is expected in 2027.

An authentic experience in the heart of Sicily

Attending the Feast of Saint Anastasia means immersing yourself in one of the most authentic traditions in the province of Catania: the scent of incense, the sound of the bands, the colors of the medieval costumes, and the collective participation of the entire local community make this festival an unmissable event for those wanting to discover the truest side of Sicily.