Memoriae — The Third Sunday of May

Memoriae — The Third Sunday of May, the ancient heart of Volano

Memoriae — The Third Sunday of May is the most cherished event in Volano, a small town in the Vallagarina valley in the province of Trento, in the heart of Trentino-Alto Adige. Every year, on the third Sunday of May, the village opens its gates and courtyards to celebrate a tradition that blends popular devotion, historical memory, and rural culture.

The Vow of May 15, 1915

At the origin of the festival lies an episode from the First World War. In May 1915, the community of Volano feared being evacuated like many neighboring towns, which were overwhelmed by the forced displacement of the population. The town's civil and religious authorities made a solemn Vow to Our Lady Help of Christians: if the village were spared, the community would give thanks every year with a procession. Having obtained permission from the Austrian command to remain in their homes, the inhabitants kept their promise. Since then, every third Sunday of May, Volano renews that Vow with a solemn procession that departs from the Pieve of the Purification of Mary.

The Palio delle Contrade

The highlight of the festival is the Palio delle Contrade, which sees the four historic districts of the town compete: Borgo, Corea, Crosera, and Piazota. The playful rivalry between the districts enlivens the days of the event and accompanies the parade and traditional games, involving entire families and turning the festival into a true moment of community gathering.

The food and wine trail

In the picturesque rural courtyards and under the arcades of the historic center, a rich food and wine trail unfolds: traditional local dishes accompanied by regional wines, first and foremost the Marzemino DOC Superiore dei Ziresi, the symbolic grape variety of the Vallagarina, and Chardonnay. The refreshment stations, managed by volunteers and associations, offer typical specialties in a convivial and authentic atmosphere.

Art, music, and performances

The festival is not just about devotion and gastronomy. Along the streets of the village, madonnari (street chalk artists) perform, creating their works on the asphalt and teaching children drawing techniques. There is no shortage of concerts, DJ sets, traveling shows, astronomical observations under the starry sky, and numerous activities for children. Among the extraordinary openings, the church of San Rocco, a 15th-century frescoed jewel, stands out.

An event organized by the EventOne Committee

The event is promoted by the EventOne Committee with the support of the Municipality of Volano and local associations, from the Alpini to the Pro Loco. Today, Memoriae represents one of the best opportunities to discover the authentic soul of the Vallagarina, uniting the memory of the 1915 Vow with the vitality of a community that lives and shares its traditions.