Festa di Sant'Eufemia

The Patron Saint of the City of Mantegna

In Irsina, a village in the province of Matera listed among the Most Beautiful Villages in Italy, the Festa di Sant'Eufemia is the most anticipated event of the year. The Co-Cathedral of Santa Maria Assunta houses a world-renowned masterpiece: the statue of Sant'Eufemia attributed to Andrea Mantegna, one of the greatest artists of the Italian Early Renaissance. Devotion to the saint marked the village's history in 1454 when the Venetian priest Roberto De' Mabilia (donated by De' Paoli) gifted the city precious relics and works of art.

Three Days of Celebration, Culminating on September 16th

The festivities last for three days, from September 15th to 17th, enlivened by great musical bands, illuminations, fireworks, and the presence of major Italian music stars. The most important day is September 16th, announced in the morning by fireworks. The long procession carries with devotion the image of Sant'Eufemia, the relic of her arm, and the icon of Divine Providence, tracing the ancient walls, crossing the old village and the town streets to return to the Co-Cathedral late in the evening, followed by thousands of faithful.

The Handing Over of the City Keys

The climax is the handing over of the city keys, entrusted by the Bishop to the patron saint Sant'Eufemia amidst applause and emotion from the crowd, while the bells ring out. A festival of faith and identity that draws residents and emigrants alike, making Irsina one of the most evocative destinations in the Matera region during September.