Madonna della Libera Festival

The Marian festival of the Marina Grande village

The Madonna della Libera Festival is the event that transforms Marina Grande, the ancient seaside village of Capri, into a place of devotion and celebration every September. Located in the municipality of Capri, in the province of Naples and the heart of Campania, the recurrence blends religious tradition with popular festivities, involving the entire island community.

Origins and worship

The cult of the Madonna della Libera has its roots in the centuries of Saracen and Turkish raids in the Mediterranean, when the people of Capri invoked the protection of the Virgin against pirate attacks. Since then, the Madonna has been venerated as the protector of sailors, a deep bond for a community always tied to the sea. The church that houses her, dedicated to Maria Santissima della Libera but known to islanders as the church of San Costanzo, stands right in Marina Grande with its simple facade and small bell tower.

The procession to the harbor

The most solemn moment is the procession: the statue of the Madonna is carried through the streets of the village down to the harbor, with the participation of all the confraternities and religious associations of the island of Capri. The procession, accompanied by the faithful, illuminates and ennobles the walk along the marina, in a picturesque setting between the boats and the sea.

Music and folklore under the stars

Alongside the liturgical events, there is a rich civil program. In the evening, the harbor area hosts music and folklore performances: in recent years, the folk group La Ciammurria and beloved Neapolitan singers have performed. The market stalls and the play area set up along the quay complete the festive atmosphere, amidst the scents of street food, tradition, and popular joy.

An identity-defining event for Capri

More than just a minor patronal feast, the Madonna della Libera Festival represents a piece of Capri's identity: an occasion where the residents of Marina Grande, fishermen, and island families gather to renew a centuries-old devotion. For visitors, it is an opportunity to discover an authentic and popular side of Capri, far from the worldly spotlight of the famous Piazzetta.