Procession of Saints Cosma and Damian
The dawn pilgrimage to the sanctuary of the healer saints
About Saints Cosma and Damian
The healer saints of Sant'Elena Sannita
Sant'Elena Sannita, a small municipality in the province of Isernia nestled at 780 meters above sea level, dedicates one of its most heartfelt celebrations to Saints Cosma and Damian, the renowned healer saints venerated throughout Southern Italy for their work of healing. The feast falls on September 30th, the day after that of the patron saint, Saint Michael the Archangel.
The dawn pilgrimage
At dawn on September 30th, the faithful set off on foot in a pilgrimage towards the sanctuary of Saints Cosma and Damian, located about two kilometers from the inhabited center, immersed in the nature of inland Molise. During the day, several Masses are celebrated at the sanctuary, in a succession of moments of prayer and reflection.
The return to the village
In the afternoon, a procession brings the saints back from the sanctuary to the mother church of the village, where the concluding Mass is celebrated. It is a tradition that combines the effort of the journey, devotion, and community dimension, typical of the religious festivals of the Apennine villages of Molise.
Saints Cosma and Damian — edition 2026
In 2026 too, Sant'Elena Sannita celebrates Saints Cosma and Damian on September 30th. The day begins with a foot pilgrimage to the sanctuary, located about two kilometers from the center, and continues with Masses celebrated at the sanctuary.
In the afternoon, the procession brings the healer saints back to the mother church of the village. The precise times of the celebrations will be announced by the parish closer to the feast.
Programme Saints Cosma and Damian 2026
The detailed program for 2026 will be published by the parish closer to the feast.
The traditional structure of the day on September 30th includes:
- At dawn — foot pilgrimage to the sanctuary of Saints Cosma and Damian (about 2 km from the village)
- During the day — Masses at the sanctuary
- In the afternoon — procession from the sanctuary to the mother church with concluding Mass
Highlights Saints Cosma and Damian 2026
Prices Saints Cosma and Damian 2026
Practical information — Saints Cosma and Damian
How to get there
Sant'Elena Sannita is located in the province of Isernia, in inland Molise. The sanctuary of Saints Cosma and Damian is about 2 km from the village and can be reached on foot during the pilgrimage.
Contacts
Municipality of Sant'Elena Sannita — tel. +39 0874 890059.
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Where does it take place — Saints Cosma and Damian
Santuario dei Santi Cosma e Damiano