Patronal Feast of Saint Mary of the Snows

Atella and its Patroness

In the heart of the Vulture region, in the province of Potenza, the village of Atella dedicates its most important annual festival to its protector, Saint Mary of the Snows - Our Lady of the Snow. The anniversary falls on August 5th, a date linked to the ancient legend of the miraculous snowfall in Rome in mid-August. In Atella, it translates into a day of intense devotion and joyful popular participation.

Between Faith and Tradition

The religious heart of the festival is the solemn Mass in the church dedicated to Our Lady, followed by the procession that carries the patroness's statue through the streets of the historic center, accompanied by the faithful, clergy, and the musical band. It is the most anticipated moment, where devotion and the village's identity merge.

The Civil Festival

The civil part of the festival unfolds around the religious celebration, organized by the Municipality of Atella along with local associations as part of the summer events calendar: band concerts, music, stalls, and the traditional fireworks that conclude the day, illuminating the Vulture sky. For Atella natives living elsewhere, it is also an occasion to return to their hometown and for intergenerational encounters.

A Summer in the Vulture

The festival of Saint Mary of the Snows is part of a busy August in the Melfese area: those who experience it can discover an authentic village, its gastronomy, and the volcanic landscapes of the Vulture, amidst Aglianico vineyards and the Monticchio lakes.