Patronage of Saint Joseph

A tradition spanning over two centuries

The Patronage of Saint Joseph is one of the most deeply rooted festivals in Borgo San Dalmazzo, in the province of Cuneo, in the heart of Piedmont. Celebrated annually on the third Sunday after Easter, it has always been the festival of the town's artisans, merchants, workers, entrepreneurs, and industrialists. It is organized by the Società di San Giuseppe, an association founded in 1790 with the aim of honoring the Saint so that he may intercede on behalf of the community's productive activities.

The heart of the festival: the exchange of banners

The most poignant moment is the ceremony of the passing of the flag (or exchange of banners), during which the outgoing prior hands over the role to the following year's prior, assisted by the massare and massari (stewards). It is a rite renewed from generation to generation that keeps the city's collective identity alive. The position of prior is a prestigious honor, awarded each year to a figure from the local working world.

Procession, mass, and conviviality

The main day begins with the gathering of members and a parade accompanied by a marching band through the town center, followed by a solemn mass. After the religious celebrations, the festival continues with a spirit of conviviality, featuring a reception open to the public and a lunch or dinner in the parish hall. The second day is dedicated to the raviolata, the traditional ravioli dinner that concludes the festivities and brings together members, friends, and families.

A symbol of the working Borgo

More than just a patronal feast, the Patronage of Saint Joseph tells the story of the transformation of Borgo San Dalmazzo from an agricultural village into a lively artisan and industrial town at the foot of the Stura, Gesso, and Vermenagna valleys. For those visiting the Cuneo area in spring, it is an authentic opportunity to experience the community spirit and the religious and labor traditions of southern Piedmont up close.