Procession of Saint Francis of Paola – Co-patron of Palermo

A maritime devotion in the heart of Palermo

The Procession of Saint Francis of Paola is one of the most cherished religious and popular events in the Palermo calendar. It takes place annually in the second half of May, centered at the Church of San Francesco di Paola in the historic center of Palermo (Metropolitan City of Palermo, Sicily). The Calabrian saint, founder of the Order of Minims, is venerated in the city as a co-patron and protector of seafarers; to the people of Palermo, he is simply known as "U Santu Patri".

History and tradition

The bond between Palermo and Saint Francis of Paola dates back centuries. The first company dedicated to the saint was established in 1579, just seventy-two years after his death. In 1725, he was proclaimed co-patron of the city and, a few years later, protector of the Kingdom. It was during this era that the precious silver statue used in the procession was created by Palermo silversmiths Placido and Antonino Carini: a life-sized statue covered in embossed silver sheets, which houses some of the saint's relics. The maritime devotion was officially sanctioned on March 27, 1943, when Pope Pius XII proclaimed Saint Francis of Paola the patron saint of Italian seafarers.

The procession to the port

The heart of the festival is the procession of the silver statue, which departs from the church in Piazza San Francesco di Paola and winds slowly through the streets of the historic center until it reaches the Port of Palermo. Here, the most evocative moment takes place: a Coast Guard patrol boat lays a laurel wreath in the sea in memory of those lost at sea, while the ships in the harbor pay homage to the saint with the sound of their sirens. The day concludes in the evening with the return of the statue accompanied by a fireworks display.

The religious program

The celebrations include a solemn three-day preparation period, Eucharistic celebrations presided over by ecclesiastical authorities, and a high mass attended by civil and military officials. The Confraternity of Saint Francis of Paola, together with the parish, oversees the organization of the functions and the procession each year, keeping a centuries-old tradition alive.

Why experience it

• Witness the procession of the rare silver statue, the only one of its kind in Palermo.
• Experience the tribute at the port, with the laurel wreath at sea and the sounding of ship sirens.
• Discover the devotional and maritime side of Palermo, from the alleys of the historic center to the waterfront.
• Participate in a free popular festival deeply rooted in the city's identity.