Madonna della Visitazione Fair and Market

A centuries-old fair in the heart of Salento

The Madonna della Visitazione Fair and Market is the most anticipated event of the year in Salice Salentino, a town in the Salento region of Puglia. With nearly four centuries of uninterrupted history, it is one of the oldest market fairs in the region: it was founded in 1660 by the local feudal lord, Don Gabriele Agostino Enriquez. Since then, every year between late June and early July, the community of Salice Salentino gathers around the venerated image of the Madonna della Visitazione, the town's patron saint.

Faith and popular devotion

The religious heart of the festival is held in the Convent, the starting point for the grand processions. The main days feature the solemn Novena, the preached Triduum, and the processions: the procession of the "Venerable" and, most importantly, the solemn procession of the Madonna della Visitazione statue through the town streets. Upon the procession's arrival in Piazza Plebiscito, the Salve Regina is traditionally sung, accompanied by a grand brass band and a tenor's voice. The liturgical solemnity culminates in a concelebrated mass led by the Archbishop of Brindisi Archbishop of Brindisi-Ostuni, while the final day is dedicated to the Thanksgiving Day at the Chiesetta della Cona.

The fair, concerts, and lights

Beyond its sacred dimension, the festival is also a major civil fair. For several days, the historic market fair unfolds along Via Fontana, featuring hundreds of stalls selling local products, handicrafts, sweets, and all kinds of goods, while the market area hosts a funfair for all ages. Luminarie (elaborate light displays) illuminate the historic center, creating the characteristic atmosphere of Salento's patronal feasts. In Piazza Plebiscito and Piazza Fitto, free evening concerts take place: Italian music revivals, pizzica performances, tribute bands, DJ sets, and video shows keep the square dancing until late at night, all topped off with traditional fireworks displays.

A heritage of identity

With a history spanning over 360 years, the Madonna della Visitazione Fair represents a true pillar of identity for Salice Salentino, a land also famous for its DOC wine. The event unites the parish communities, gathered under the Interparish Committee for Patronal Feasts, and attracts thousands of visitors each summer—both locals and tourists—in a blend of devotion, popular tradition, and celebration that captures the authentic soul of Salento.