Feast of the Co-Patron Saint Mauro Abate

The patronal feast of Bomba

Every year, on the last Sunday of May, the small village of Bomba, in the province of Chieti, solemnly celebrates its co-patron, Saint Mauro Abate. It is one of the most cherished occasions in the Abruzzo town's calendar, involving the entire population and attracting numerous pilgrims and visitors. The celebration centers around the Sanctuary of Saint Mauro Abate, located in the heart of the historic center and overlooking the picturesque Lake Bomba, nestled in the hills of the middle Sangro valley.

Rites and traditions

The festival spans several days. Starting mid-week before the last Sunday of May, faithful and street vendors arrive, gathering near the Sanctuary in anticipation of the festivities. On Thursday, the blessing of the oil takes place, which pilgrims purchase to take home as a sign of devotion. On Friday, the wooden statue of Saint Mauro, adorned in liturgical vestments and kept in the parish church, is carried in procession through the narrow streets of the village to the Sanctuary. On Sunday evening, at the conclusion of the celebrations, the statue returns to the parish church accompanied by pilgrims in procession.

Devotion to Saint Mauro

Saint Mauro, a Benedictine monk and disciple of Saint Benedict, is venerated as a protector against all pain, particularly rheumatic and arthritic pain and toothaches. His devotion is widespread throughout Abruzzo, and the Bomba festival draws crowds of pilgrims from many towns in the region. The Sanctuary preserves unique folk rites, such as the use of blessed oil placed on an ancient stone to alleviate pain.

The Sanctuary and the village

The origins of the cult date back to ancient times; the current Neo-Romanesque buildings were reconstructed between 1954 and 1963 through the community's efforts following the destruction of the Second World War. The red brick bell tower houses the famous "bell of Saint Mauro." Immersed in a landscape of hills and overlooking the waters of Lake Bomba, the Sanctuary represents the spiritual heart of the village and a landmark of identity for the entire community in this corner of Abruzzo.

A celebration for the whole community

Between traditional songs, moments of prayer, and opportunities for sharing, the Feast of Saint Mauro Abate is much more than a religious recurrence: it is an event that renews the bond between the inhabitants of Bomba and their roots every year, welcoming visitors into an authentic atmosphere of Abruzzo folk tradition.