Night of the Cucibocca

A ritual that comes from the depths of time

There is an archaic and mysterious Italy that survives in a few places, and Montescaglioso preserves one of its most powerful rituals: the Notte dei Cucibocca. On the night between January 5th and 6th, the eve of Epiphany, the village overlooking the Parco della Murgia Materana transforms into an open-air theatre where an ancient tradition is staged, now recognized as one of the most identity-rich rituals of Southern Italy.

Who are the Cucibocca

The Cucibocca are mysterious and unrecognizable figures: they wear glasses made from orange peels, thick white beards, and long dark robes. They walk slowly through the alleys of the historic center, dragging broken chains that echo on the ancient cobblestones, carrying baskets and lanterns. According to tradition, they threaten to "sew the mouths shut" of children, so they remain silent and allow the Befana to deliver gifts. An archaic and evocative image, suspended between fear and wonder, that enchants adults and children alike.

Three days of culture and tradition

Over the years, the Notte dei Cucibocca has become an event spread over three days, from January 3rd to 5th, with exhibitions in the Abbey of San Michele Arcangelo, workshops for children, excursions in the Murgia Park, book presentations, video installations, and concerts. The climax remains the dressing of the Cucibocca and their ritual parade through the historic center on the evening of January 5th.

Montescaglioso, between the Abbey and the Murgia

Promoted by the Municipality of Montescaglioso with local associations, the Notte dei Cucibocca is an event that attracts scholars, photographers, and visitors from all over Italy. Experiencing it means discovering Montescaglioso, its Benedictine abbey, and the nocturnal charm of a village just a few kilometers from the Sassi of Matera.