S.S. Maria dei Lumi Festival

The oldest Marian festival in Civitella del Tronto

The S.S. Maria dei Lumi Festival is the signature event of Civitella del Tronto, a village in the province of Teramo. Perched above the Val Vibrata on the northern border of Abruzzo, it is widely considered one of Italy's most beautiful towns. With over 130 editions behind it, the festival has always bridged the community's deep religious devotion with a vibrant social dimension, bringing together generations and attracting visitors from across the Val Vibrata and the neighboring Piceno region.

The Sanctuary and the origin of the "Lumi"

The heart of the festival is the Sanctuary of Santa Maria dei Lumi, home to the Convent of the Friars Minor Conventual, who have guarded the site since 1882. The complex stands on a former Benedictine site; the current building was erected starting in 1466, and the Franciscan community settled there in 1471. The name "dei Lumi" (of the Lights) stems from a mystical tradition involving mysterious glowing flames that, according to local folklore, were seen dancing in the area in the second half of the 17th century. Inside, the faithful venerate the Madonna and Child, a Renaissance wooden sculpture attributed to Giovanni di Biasuccio (1489), housed in the main altar's niche.

The religious program

Devotional activities mark the four days: the novena, featuring the rosary and evening mass, prepares the community, while the most solemn moment is the procession with the Madonna’s portrait, which winds through the village. On the Sunday and Monday of the festival, solemn masses are held, including a service presided over by the Bishop of the Diocese of Teramo-Atri, followed by the traditional unveiling of the portrait.

Secular events and concerts

Alongside faith, the festival thrives on a packed, free-entry secular program that has brought well-known Italian music stars to the stage over the years. The evenings feature free concerts, tribute bands, DJ sets, comedy, and musical shows dedicated to the 80s and 90s, which are highly popular with the public. There is no shortage of sports tournaments—such as the 5-a-side football memorial—popular games like "Val Vibrata without borders," entertainment, and a funfair for families.

Abruzzo flavors and the fireworks finale

Throughout the event, food stalls serving typical Teramo specialties remain open, offering the perfect spot for lunch or dinner between events. The grand finale is the fireworks display that illuminates the fortified village late at night, officially closing the festival in a symbolic nod to the ancient "lights" that gave it its name.

A village to discover

The festival is also the perfect opportunity to visit one of Abruzzo's most fascinating villages, dominated by the monumental Fortress of Civitella del Tronto, one of the largest in Europe, and to explore the traditions of the town and the entire province of Teramo.