The ancient mid-Lent rite with a procession, bonfire, and toast
In Martellago, in the province of Venice, one of the most characteristic traditions of Venetian folklore survives: the Processo dea Vecia de Meza Quaresima. It is the mid-Lent rite, widespread in many parts of Veneto, which symbolically marks the central point of the Lenten period and the anticipation of spring.
The protagonist is the vecia, a large puppet representing winter and the troubles of the past year. An evening allegorical procession starts from Piazza Bertati and travels along Via Castellana to the Inclusive Park, where the 'vecia' is put on 'trial' in a symbolic rite and then set ablaze in a large bonfire. The evening concludes with a collective toast, a moment of celebration and good omen for the community.
More than a spectacle, the Processo dea Vecia is an identity rite that the Municipality of Martellago keeps alive year after year. For visitors, it is a precious opportunity to discover an authentic tradition of the Venetian mainland, far from major tourist events and rooted in the agricultural and popular calendar of the area.
The 2026 edition is scheduled for March 29. In the evening, the allegorical procession starts from Piazza Bertati and runs along Via Castellana to the Inclusive Park, where the vecia is put on 'trial' and then set ablaze in a large bonfire, followed by a collective toast. The rite, a good omen for spring, is organized by the Municipality of Martellago.
Starting from Piazza Bertati, arrival at the Inclusive Park of Martellago (VE), along Via Castellana.
On the occasion of mid-Lent, in the evening. Recurring annual event.
Free.
No photos yet. Share yours!
5 photos max, 5 MB per photo (JPG, PNG, WebP)
Help us keep this listing up to date. Every proposal is verified by our team before publication.
No rating yet — be the first!
No comments yet. Be the first!
Share your experience with the community.
Piazza Bertati e Parco Inclusivo, Martellago
Piazza Bertati, 30030 Martellago