San Biagio Procession for the 1693 Earthquake Commemoration

A centuries-old vow against the earthquake

In the heart of the Iblean winter, every January 11th, the town of Comiso in the province of Ragusa gathers around its patron saint, San Biagio Martire, to honor the victims of the 1693 earthquake, one of the most tragic catastrophes in the history of Eastern Sicily. The people of Comiso attribute the survival of much of their community to the saint's intercession during the disaster that ravaged the Val di Noto and Val Demone regions. Since then, the city has fulfilled its vow every year in an event that weaves together faith, memory, and collective identity.

The rite of Vespers and the organ

The commemoration centers on the Mother Church and the Church of San Biagio, which was rebuilt in the early 18th century on the ruins of the original structure damaged by the 1693 quake. A few days prior, the statue of the patron is moved to the Mother Church for public veneration. The most poignant moment occurs during the solemn Vespers in the afternoon: according to a deeply felt tradition, the church organ simulates the tremors of the earthquake, followed by the singing of the Te Deum of thanksgiving. It is a moment of profound emotional impact, where the community symbolically relives the fear and subsequent gratitude of their ancestors.

The evening procession

At dusk, the statue of San Biagio is carried in procession through the streets of the historic center, accompanied by the Diana Band of Comiso and followed by local confraternities and numerous devotees. The procession winds through Via Mons. Rimmaudo, Piazza Fonte Diana, Via Di Vita, Via Umberto, Via Casmene, Via Veneto, Via Puglie, Viale della Resistenza, and Via San Biagio, concluding at the saint's church, where the statue is returned to the high altar.

A tradition distinct from the summer feast

This winter recurrence should not be confused with the summer patronal feast, celebrated on the second Sunday of July with traditional offerings, the 'ntocci (votive candles), and widespread popular participation. The January commemoration is more intimate and reflective, focused entirely on the memory of the earthquake and thanksgiving. For those visiting south-eastern Sicily and the Iblean area, it is a precious opportunity to experience the most authentic and devotional soul of Comiso, a Baroque city that was home to Salvatore Fiume and Gesualdo Bufalino.