Saint Maurus Abbot Festival (Patron Saint of Casoria)

The patronal festival of Casoria

Every year in January, the town of Casoria, in the province of Naples, celebrates its patron saint, Saint Maurus Abbot, with one of the most heartfelt festivals in the area north of the Campanian capital. The recurrence, which has its liturgical heart on January 15th, transforms the city center into a blend of popular devotion, music, and entertainment, attracting families and visitors from neighboring towns in Campania.

Saint Maurus Abbot, the patron saint who arrived on horseback

Saint Maurus Abbot was one of the main disciples of Saint Benedict of Nursia and a leading figure of the Benedictine order. According to local Casoria tradition, his relics arrived in the city thanks to a knight: his horse allegedly refused to move further near the ancient monastery, a sign interpreted as the saint's desire to remain in Casoria. This gave rise to the devotion that led to the construction of the Basilica of Saint Maurus. The saint is traditionally invoked against rheumatism and joint pain, and his festival marks the true end of the Christmas period for many Casoria residents.

Devotion and entertainment between the Basilica and the streets

The festival combines two spirits. On one hand, the religious celebrations in the Basilica of Saint Maurus, with solemn masses and the procession through the streets of the center; on the other, the civil and popular dimension, with stalls selling traditional nougat and toys along the saint's street, concerts, and evening shows. It is in this balance between the sacred and the street festival that the community's identity is recognized.

The 2026 Notte Bianca

The 2026 edition, presented by the Municipality of Casoria, focuses heavily on live music. On Tuesday, January 13th, the Basilica will host a performance by Maestro Vincenzo Sorrentino, while on Saturday, January 17th, Via Principe di Piemonte will become the stage for the Notte Bianca, with Dario Sansone, Jovine, and Soleluna taking turns on stage. There is also space for the little ones, with music and entertainment dedicated to children before the concerts begin.

An event for the whole city

With its mix of faith, popular traditions, and well-known names from the Campanian music scene, the Saint Maurus Festival represents one of the defining events of Casoria and Campania. An opportunity to rediscover the Basilica, the city center, and local gastronomic traditions in a festive atmosphere that involves the entire citizenry.