Patronal Feast of Saint Anthony of Padua

A maritime devotion since 1928

The Patronal Feast of Saint Anthony of Padua is the most cherished event in Marina di Ginosa, the seaside district of the municipality of Ginosa, in the Province of Taranto, on the Ionian coast of Puglia. Its origins date back to 1928: the venerated papier-mâché statue, a polychrome group depicting the Saint kneeling before the Baby Jesus, was crafted in 1926 by the Salento master Carmelo Buono and purchased by a committee of local notables. Since then, Saint Anthony has been the protector of the marina, and his feast marks the beginning of the Ionian summer each year.

The religious heart of the feast

The spiritual core of the festivities is the Maria SS. Immacolata Parish, where in the days leading up to June 13th, the Holy Rosary, the traditional Tredicina (thirteen-day preparation), and the Eucharistic celebration take place. On the day of the feast, the community gathers for the Solemn Holy Mass, often presided over by the Bishop of the Diocese of Castellaneta, followed by the procession of the Saint's statue, which winds through the streets of the marina accompanied by a brass band amidst the participation of the faithful.

Illuminations, shows, and fireworks

Alongside the sacred aspect, the feast preserves its popular and festive soul. At dusk, the evocative display of illuminations is switched on, lighting up Viale Ionio, Piazza Indipendenza, and Piazza San Pio da Pietrelcina, transforming the marina into a blaze of light. The squares host shows, band concerts, and cabaret evenings, while stalls and stands enliven the streets. To conclude the festivities, the sky over the sea lights up with traditional fireworks, the most anticipated moment of the entire event.

A community heritage

Over the decades, the feast has grown thanks to the commitment of parish priests, committees, and local associations, such as the Magna Grecia association and the Patronal Feast Committee that still organizes it today. After expanding in scope over the years, the celebration has returned to focusing on the sacred aspect of its origins around the date of June 13th, while maintaining the warmth of a popular festival that unites residents, vacationers, and devotees from neighboring towns.

Ginosa and its Ionian coast

Marina di Ginosa is the gateway to the sea for the municipality of Ginosa, famous for its pine forest and long Ionian beaches, while the historic center, perched on the ravine, houses an evocative crypt and a castle. The feast of Saint Anthony is the ideal opportunity to discover this corner of Ionian Puglia, amidst religious tradition, hospitality, and the flavors of local cuisine.