Saint Ignatius of Loyola Festival

A patronal feast at the foot of Mount Etna

The Saint Ignatius of Loyola Festival is the main religious and civic event in Piedimonte Etneo, a town in the Metropolitan City of Catania, Sicily, resting on the northeastern slopes of Mount Etna. Saint Ignatius of Loyola, founder of the Society of Jesus, is the town's patron saint: his feast is celebrated on July 31st, the Saint's liturgical day, and extends until the first Sunday of August, embracing the heart of the Piedimonte summer.

The July 31st Procession

The highlight is the solemn evening procession. On July 31st, the statue of the Saint is lifted and carried through the town streets, followed by a crowd of worshippers, only returning to the Mother Church dedicated to Our Lady of the Rosary late in the evening. Along the route, the float is accompanied by a marching band and the characteristic throwing of confetti and colorful streamers; upon returning to the church, the day concludes with a fireworks display. For the occasion, the entire town dresses up for the party, illuminated by spectacular festive lights and animated by stalls lining the processional path.

Tradition, community, and Jesuit roots

Devotion to Saint Ignatius is deeply rooted in the history of the village, once called Belvedere for its wide views over Mount Etna and the Ionian Sea. The statue is traditionally carried in procession according to the rite that binds the town to its protector. Next to the Mother Church, built in the early 18th century, stands the church dedicated to Saint Ignatius, further evidence of the local cult. The festival is a moment of strong cohesion for the Piedimonte community and for the many emigrants who return to their hometown during these summer days.

Summer flavors and atmosphere

The patronal festivities are part of the broader Piedimonte summer calendar, featuring musical and theatrical reviews, folk shows, and food festivals. It is the perfect time to savor local cuisine and the famous wines of Mount Etna, from Nerello Mascalese to local productions, in a unique natural setting on the edge of Mount Etna Park. Between faith, folklore, and gastronomy, the Saint Ignatius Festival remains the quintessential identity event for Piedimonte Etneo.