Festa della Madonna Addolorata
Norcia's ancient devotion to the Madonna Addolorata, since 1735
About Madonna Addolorata
The Festa della Madonna Addolorata
In Norcia, in the heart of the Valnerina in the province of Perugia, the last Sunday of September is dedicated to the Madonna Addolorata, one of the city's most deeply rooted devotions.
A tradition dating back to 1735
The festival has its roots in 1735: after the earthquakes that struck the area around 1730, the preacher Don Mattia Amadio brought an image of the Madonna Addolorata to Norcia which, according to tradition, shed tears from her pierced heart on the evening of December 5th of that year. Since then, the people of Norcia have venerated this image as a sign of special protection, a devotion made even more intense after the 2016 earthquake, when the painting was saved from its church.
Mass, procession, and celebration
The central moment is the procession that winds through the historic centre of Norcia, accompanied by a solemn mass and communal prayer. Around the religious celebration, recreational events take place, with the city illuminated by festive lights, moments of music, and the traditional fireworks. It is an event that unites the spiritual and popular dimensions, involving the entire community of Norcia.
Madonna Addolorata — edition 2026
The Festa della Madonna Addolorata returns to Norcia, according to tradition, on the last Sunday of September: in 2026, the occasion should fall on September 27th. The exact date and detailed program will be confirmed by the parish in the weeks preceding the event.
As every year, the festival includes a solemn mass and a procession with the image of the Madonna Addolorata through the historic centre, accompanied by recreational events, illuminations, music, and fireworks.
Programme Madonna Addolorata 2026
The detailed program for the 2026 edition will be announced by the parish closer to the festival. The traditional structure includes:
- Solemn Mass in honour of the Madonna Addolorata
- Procession with the sacred image through the historic centre of Norcia
- Recreational events, illuminations, and music
- Fireworks to conclude the day of celebration
Highlights Madonna Addolorata 2026
Prices Madonna Addolorata 2026
Practical information — Madonna Addolorata
How to get there
Norcia can be reached by car via the SS685 delle Tre Valli Umbre, exiting the SS3 Flaminia at Spoleto. Nearest train station: Spoleto (approx. 50 km).
When and where
The festival is celebrated on the last Sunday of September, with the main events in the historic centre and the church of Madonna Addolorata (Piazza Sergio Forti).
Admission
Religious celebrations and events are free to enter.
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Where does it take place — Madonna Addolorata
Chiesa della Madonna Addolorata e centro storico
Piazza Sergio Forti, 06046 Norcia