Grande 'Ndocciata di Agnone

A river of fire in the heart of Alto Molise

The 'Ndocciata is the most iconic event in Agnone, a village in the province of Isernia nestled in Alto Molise. Every year, in December, thousands of visitors flock to the historic center to witness one of the most spectacular ancient fire rites in Southern Italy: a procession of enormous lit torches transforms the main street into an authentic river of fire.

The 'ndocce

The 'ndocce are torches made from white fir wood and bundles of dry broom held together by twine. They have a characteristic fan shape, with two to twenty flames, can exceed three meters in height, and weigh around 140 kilograms. They are carried on the shoulders by the bearers from the five districts of the town, who parade wearing capes, black hats, and traditional peasant attire.

The Bonfire of brotherhood

The procession culminates in the square with the lighting of a large bonfire, the Bonfire of brotherhood, around which the community gathers to entrust the negative aspects of the year to the fire and symbolically start a new cycle.

Heritage and tradition

The 'Ndocciata is considered intangible cultural heritage and is rooted in the popular traditions of Molise. Alongside the Grande 'Ndocciata, held on the second Saturday of December, a more intimate and solemn version – the 'Ndocciata della Vigilia – is presented on Christmas Eve. The event is organized by the Municipality of Agnone together with the Associazione La 'Ndocciata and the Pro Loco.