The dawn procession that opens the month of the Patron Saints of Venafro
"Sant'Ncandriegl" — an expression in the Venafro dialect meaning "Little Saint Nicandro" — is the event with which Venafro, in the province of Isernia, opens the month dedicated to the Holy Martyr Patron Saints Nicander, Marcian, and Daria. It falls on May 17th and precedes the main patronal feast in June, marking the beginning of the celebrations in honor of the protectors of the city and the entire Diocese of Isernia-Venafro.
The most characteristic moment is the dawn procession: at the first light of morning, the bust of Saint Nicander leaves the Church of the Most Holy Annunciation and reaches the Basilica of SS. Nicander, Marcian, and Daria, where the Solemn Mass is celebrated, before the simulacrum's return. An intimate and evocative rite, deeply felt by the Venafro community.
Alongside the religious dimension, the day combines culture and charity: the Spring Aperitif, with fundraising and live music in the Basilica square, and in the evening, food stalls with musical performances. The organizers emphasize the values of solidarity and mutual support that animate the feast, strengthening the identity and bonds between generations.
On May 17, 2026, the recurrence of "Sant'Ncandriegl" opened the month dedicated to the Holy Martyr Patron Saints of Venafro. At dawn, the evocative procession with the bust of Saint Nicander from the Church of the Most Holy Annunciation to the Basilica, where the Solemn Mass was celebrated. The day continued with the Spring Aperitif, a moment of conviviality and fundraising with live music, and in the evening with food stalls and musical performances, amidst faith, culture, and solidarity.
May 17th, opening of the Patron Saint's month (2026 edition: Sunday, May 17th).
Church of the Most Holy Annunciation and Basilica of SS. Nicander, Marcian, and Daria, Venafro (IS).
Free admission for celebrations; aperitif and food stalls by donation/payment (with fundraising).
Venafro is reachable by car via the SS85 and has a train station on the Vairano-Isernia line.
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Chiesa della Santissima Annunziata e Basilica dei SS. Nicandro, Marciano e Daria
Chiesa della Santissima Annunziata, 86079 Venafro