Festival of the Crucifix

A Tradition Alive for Over Two Centuries

The Festival of the Crucifix is the most anticipated event of the year in San Possidonio, a small town in the Bassa Modenese area of the province of Modena, in the heart of Emilia-Romagna. Now in its 220th edition, it is one of the oldest and most characteristic festivals in the region. Every year, on the last weekend of August, the town's historic center transforms into a grand celebration that blends devotion, historical memory, and conviviality.

Origins: The Crucifix of 1806

The festival originates from a specific event. After the Napoleonic suppression of religious orders, a Crucifix from the church of the Capuchin friars in Concordia sulla Secchia was at risk of being dispersed. Marquis Pietro Tacoli obtained it from the prefectural administration of Modena and arranged for its solemn transfer to the parish church of San Possidonio on August 21, 1806. Since then, the community has remembered this event by reenacting the procession annually. Following the damage from the 2012 earthquake, a new simulacrum, faithful to the original, was created in 2013, allowing the celebration to continue uninterrupted.

The Historical Costume Procession

The most solemn moment is the historical procession, traditionally held on Sundays. Participants in period costumes and faithful parade through the town streets in a procession that recreates the atmosphere of the 19th century and draws visitors from all over the Bassa Modenese. The religious program also includes Eucharistic celebrations throughout the festival, reminding attendees of the spiritual significance that gave rise to the festival.

Emilian Gastronomy Takes Center Stage

Alongside the religious aspect, the Festival of the Crucifix is a grand open-air village celebration. Food stalls offer the best of Emilian cuisine: handmade tortelli, served during the "Tortelli sotto le stelle" (Tortelli Under the Stars) evenings, the traditional maccheronata that turns the piazza into an open-air restaurant, and the pumpkin tortelli, a specialty of the Bassa region. Local sweets, wines, and typical products are also featured.

Music, Shows, and a Funfair

Every evening, the festival comes alive with live music, ballroom dancing orchestras, revival nights, amateur performances, and entertainment for families. Stalls and a lively funfair complete the festive atmosphere, making the event suitable for all ages.

Why Visit

• One of the oldest festivals in Emilia-Romagna, with over 200 years of history
• The evocative historical costume procession
• The great Emilian cuisine: tortelli, maccheronata, pumpkin tortelli
• Four days of music, dancing, shows, and a funfair
• Free admission and authentic village atmosphere