Rite of the Tables of Saint Joseph

A millennial rite in the heart of Salento

The Rite of the Tables of Saint Joseph is one of the most intense and deeply felt popular traditions in Puglia. Every year, around March 18th and 19th, for the feast of Saint Joseph, the small town of Giurdignano, in the province of Lecce, located between Maglie and Otranto, transforms into a widespread sanctuary of hospitality. Giurdignano is considered one of the most important places in Salento for the cult of the Saint, and every March its historic center comes alive with lit candles, the aromas of home cooking, and devotional chants.

Origins and symbolism

The tradition has roots in a very distant past: some trace it back to the ancient Confraternities of Saint Joseph, others to the Byzantine liturgy and the Basilian monks who, according to legend, offered protection and hot meals to the needy. The dense presence of crypts and rock settlements in the area makes this hypothesis plausible. The Table originated as a vow: devotees prepare it to ask for a grace or to give thanks for a grace received.

How the rite unfolds

Sitting around the table are several people called "Saints", who impersonate figures of the Holy Family and Christian tradition: Saint Joseph, the Madonna, Baby Jesus, and others. Their number varies from a minimum of 3 to a maximum of 13, always an odd number, in memory of the Last Supper. The head of the table, representing Saint Joseph, marks the beginning of each course and prayer with a gesture. The Saints first receive Communion in church, then take their places around the table, while the Rosary is recited, punctuated by the litany "Saint Joseph, pray for us".

The ritual dishes

On the long tables, covered with white tablecloths, flowers, and candles, the traditional dishes are essential:

• Massa e ciciri (homemade pasta with chickpeas), the symbol of the rite
• Decorated breads of large dimensions, often weighing 5 kilos, adorned with fennel and orange
• Vermicelli with chickpeas, pasta with honey and breadcrumbs
• Boiled vegetables, lampascioni (tassel hyacinth bulbs), fried fish, or stewed stockfish
• Cartellate and traditional devotional sweets

A town that opens its doors

On the evening of the eve of March 19th, all the homes hosting a Table open their doors to local and foreign visitors. In the alleys and courtyards of the village, one can count up to sixty private tables, blessed and open for free viewing. The Pro Loco also sets up a large table in the square, with stands featuring local products, storytelling about the tradition, and festive moments that culminate in religious rites and fireworks. It is an authentic experience where the visitor is welcomed like family, amidst Salento dialect, Italian, and smiles, in the town of Giurdignano, in the heart of Puglia.