Historical Pageant and Re-enactment of the Delivery of the Relics of Saint Vitus

A re-enactment born from the sea

In the town of Polignano a Mare, a jewel perched above the Adriatic in the Metropolitan City of Bari, Puglia, the Historical Pageant and Re-enactment of the Delivery of the Relics of Saint Vitus the Martyr bring one of the city's most cherished collective memories to life. Held in spring, the event historically recreates the arrival of the patron saint's relics by sea, involving costumed actors, historical groups, and traditional vessels in a spectacle that blends history, culture, and local identity.

The legend of Princess Fiorenza

The devotion of the people of Polignano to Saint Vitus is rooted in a legend passed down through generations: a princess named Fiorenza is said to have carried the young martyr's relics to safety across the sea, landing at the site where the Abbey of San Vito—one of the coastline's most iconic landmarks—still stands today. The re-enactment brings this story to life: the sacred relics, kept aboard traditional fishing 'gozzi', depart from Portacola and sail to the abbey's small harbor, where the figure of Princess Fiorenza symbolically presents them to the community.

A bridge to Bari and Saint Nicholas

Over the years, the event has become a powerful symbol of dialogue between Apulian traditions. The re-enactment features historical groups from Bari, including I Figuranti di San Nicola and the Timpanisti Nicolaus Barium, who bridge the cult of Polignano's patron saint with that of Saint Nicholas of Bari, creating a symbolic connection between the two cities overlooking the same sea. The procession is accompanied by the local Grand Concert Band and the Associazione Gozzi di San Vito, guardians of the traditional boats.

Distinct from the June patronal feast

This spring re-enactment should not be confused with the patronal feast itself, which is celebrated in Polignano a Mare in June with the famous sea procession of the saint's effigy and solemn religious parades. The Historical Pageant anticipates and prepares for that devotional atmosphere, recounting the legendary origins of the bond between the city and its patron through the philological reconstruction of costumes, boats, and ancient gestures.

Why it is worth attending

• The unique natural scenery of the Abbey of San Vito and the cliffs of Polignano.
• The arrival of the relics aboard the 'gozzi', a moment of great emotional impact.
• The participation of historical and musical groups from across Puglia.
• A free event, suitable for families and lovers of folk traditions.