Processione dei Santi Cosma e Damiano
The dawn pilgrimage to the sanctuary of the patron saints
About Santi Cosma e Damiano
The patron 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 patron saints venerated throughout Southern Italy for their healing work. The festival falls on September 30th, the day after that of the patron saint San Michele Arcangelo.
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 kilometres from the inhabited centre, immersed in the nature of the inner Molise region. 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 spirit, typical of the religious festivals in the Apennine villages of Molise.
Santi Cosma e Damiano — edition 2026
In 2026 too, Sant'Elena Sannita celebrates Saints Cosma and Damian on September 30th. The day begins with the walking pilgrimage to the sanctuary, located about two kilometres from the centre, and continues with Masses celebrated at the sanctuary.
In the afternoon, the procession brings the patron saints back to the village's mother church. The precise times of the celebrations will be announced by the parish closer to the festival.
Programme Santi Cosma e Damiano 2026
The detailed programme for 2026 will be published by the parish closer to the festival.
The traditional structure of the day on September 30th includes:
- At dawn — walking pilgrimage to the sanctuary of Saints Cosma and Damian (approx. 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 Santi Cosma e Damiano 2026
Prices Santi Cosma e Damiano 2026
Practical information — Santi Cosma e Damiano
How to get there
Sant'Elena Sannita is located in the province of Isernia, in the inner Molise region. 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 — Santi Cosma e Damiano
Santuario dei Santi Cosma e Damiano