Festival of Saints Marianus and James in Rionero Sannitico
The patronal feast of the two martyrs of Lambesi, on April 29th and 30th
About Saints Marianus and James
The Patrons of Rionero Sannitico
Saints Marianus and James are the patrons of Rionero Sannitico (IS), a village in Alto Molise. According to tradition, they were martyrs in Lambesi in the 3rd century, and their devotion has been passed down from generation to generation, remaining "an ancient and always deeply felt devotion" by the community. The festival is celebrated on April 29th and 30th, with the climax on the day of the martyrdom.
Two Days of Celebrations
The festivities, organized by the parish with the patronage of the Municipality, begin on April 29th with vespers at the sanctuary dedicated to the two saints. On April 30th, the feast day, the day opens with the arrival of the marching band that parades through the streets of the town; followed by mass and the traditional procession with the statues of the two martyrs towards the sanctuary, where the solemn mass is celebrated. In the afternoon, the sacred procession returns to the town, while the evening is dedicated to music with the orchestra concert.
Faith Among the Molise Mountains
Amidst the mountains of Alto Molise, the festival of Saints Marianus and James combines the religious dimension with the popular and identity-based one, attracting emigrants and visitors to the town and renewing a centuries-old bond of faith between Rionero Sannitico and its protectors.
Saints Marianus and James — edition 2026
In 2026, Rionero Sannitico (IS) will also honor its patrons Marianus and James on April 29th and 30th. The traditional structure of the festival is confirmed: opening vespers at the sanctuary, the arrival of the band, the procession with the statues of the two martyrs, the solemn mass, and the evening concert.
Programme Saints Marianus and James 2026
The 2026 program, following the established tradition, includes:
- April 29th, 5:00 PM — vespers at the Sanctuary of Saints Marianus and James
- April 30th, 8:00 AM — arrival of the marching band and parade through the town streets
- April 30th, 9:30 AM — celebration of mass, followed by the procession to the sanctuary with solemn mass
- April 30th, afternoon — return of the sacred procession to the town
- April 30th, evening — concert with orchestra at the sanctuary
Details of musical guests and timings will be confirmed by the parish closer to the festival.
Highlights Saints Marianus and James 2026
The procession with the statues of the two martyrs to the sanctuary and the solemn mass on April 30th.
Prices Saints Marianus and James 2026
Practical information — Saints Marianus and James
How to get there
Rionero Sannitico (IS) is located in Alto Molise, reachable by car from the SS17; about 30 km from Isernia.
When
April 29th and 30th (fixed date, linked to the day of martyrdom).
Admission
Religious celebrations and concert with free admission.
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Where does it take place — Saints Marianus and James
Santuario dei Santi Mariano e Giacomo