Saint Romulus Festival

The patronal feast of Fiesole

The Saint Romulus Festival is the quintessential identity-defining event for the Municipality of Fiesole, located in the Province of Florence, in the heart of Tuscany. Every year, around July 6th, the town perched on the hills overlooking Florence pays homage to its patron saint with a series of religious and civil celebrations that involve the entire community and numerous visitors.

Saint Romulus, patron of the city

Saint Romulus has been venerated for centuries as the protector of Fiesole and its ancient Diocese. The majestic Cathedral of Saint Romulus, overlooking Piazza Mino da Fiesole, the hub of city life, is dedicated to him. The patronal feast is a moment of strong cohesion, where the spiritual dimension merges with the popular one, keeping a deeply rooted tradition alive in the Fiesole area.

Two days of celebrations

The program is traditionally spread over two days. The eve, July 5th, opens in the evening with the First Vespers of Saint Romulus celebrated in the Cathedral. The day of the feast, July 6th, features the solemn concelebrated Mass in the morning, while the evocative procession with the saint's relics begins in the afternoon, traveling from the Church of Santa Maria Primerana through the streets of the historic center to reach the Cathedral.

Music and fireworks

The evening of July 6th is dedicated to civil festivities. The Giuseppe Verdi Philharmonic of Fiesole performs a concert in the unique setting of the Roman Theatre, one of the most evocative archaeological sites in the Florentine area. The celebrations conclude with a fireworks display, lighting up the sky over Fiesole for a stunning finale.

The fair market and the Palio

During the festival, the center comes alive with the traditional Saint Romulus fair market, which stretches along Via Portigiani with stalls and local products. The tradition of the Palio is also particularly cherished: a work of art offered to the Patron each year by a local artist. It is displayed in the Cathedral and the Church of Santa Maria Primerana before being carried in the procession on the day of the feast.

An experience of history and tradition

Participating in the Saint Romulus Festival means immersing yourself in the most authentic identity of Fiesole, amidst Etruscan and Roman art, religious devotion, and a festive atmosphere. It is also an ideal opportunity to discover the artistic and scenic beauties of one of the most fascinating locations in Tuscany.