Santa Giusta Festival

A patronal feast in the heart of the upper Vastese

The Santa Giusta Festival is the most cherished summer event in Tufillo, a tiny village perched in the upper Vastese region, in the province of Chieti, on the border between Abruzzo and Molise. Every year, on August 1st, the entire community gathers to honor Santa Giusta, the martyr who, according to tradition, was martyred on this very date. It is a day that weaves together religious devotion and village celebration, drawing back to Tufillo many emigrants who return to their native village for the summer.

The Church of Santa Giusta, a village monument

The heart of the celebration is the Church of Santa Giusta, which stands at the highest point of the village. A building of medieval origin, it houses a fine 13th-century stone Gothic portal with Apulian influences, similar to contemporary portals in the Vastese area; the facade was later adapted in the 18th century. The church, recognized as a national monument, gives its name and significance to the entire event: it is from here that the Mass and the procession with the statue of the saint wind through the streets of the historic center.

Between collections, brass bands, and musical evenings

The festival follows a traditional rhythm that repeats year after year. In the afternoon, the village comes alive with the collection through the streets, accompanied by a brass band that brings music to the doorsteps; this is followed by Holy Mass and the procession, moments of strong popular participation. As evening falls, the festival changes its face: the square turns into a stage for live music and DJ sets, keeping both young and old dancing until late at night.

Organization and community spirit

The event is organized by the Tufillo Festival Committee, with the involvement of the parish and local associations. Beyond the program, the Santa Giusta Festival is above all an occasion for reunion for a small community proud of its roots, a way to keep the traditions of the upper Vastese alive and to introduce visitors to an authentic village in inland Abruzzo, nestled among the hills, badlands, and valleys of the Trigno river.