Patronal Feast of Saint Innocent the Martyr

A Devotion of Almost Four Centuries

In Grassano, a lively village in the province of Matera overlooking the Basento valley, the Patronal Feast of Saint Innocent the Martyr is the most anticipated event of the year. With almost four centuries of history, the feast takes place every September, traditionally around September 19-22, and brings the entire community and many emigrants returning for the occasion together around the patron saint.

The Saint Carried on Shoulders by Young People in Roman Costume

The heart of the feast is the solemn procession that accompanies the 17th-century statue of Saint Innocent through the village streets. The most evocative moment is the parade on September 22, the day of the solemnity: the saint is carried on the shoulders of young people dressed in Roman costume, a tradition established over forty years ago. The morning begins with a solemn Mass and the blessing of the wheat. The ceremony of the keys and the historic fair on September 19, with ancient origins, are also not to be missed.

A Feast of Faith and People

Alongside the religious dimension, civil celebrations liven up Grassano for several days: musical bands, illuminations, concerts, shows, and food stalls offering Lucanian specialties and traditional fireworks. Recent editions have hosted concerts by popular artists and significant civic moments, such as the awarding of honorary citizenship. Visiting Grassano during the feast means discovering a village with a strong identity, in the land described by Carlo Levi, at its most intense and participatory moment.