Santa Rosalia Patronal Feast

An ancient devotion in the heart of the Sicani

In the village of Bivona, nestled in the Sicani Mountains in the province of Agrigento, the Santa Rosalia Patronal Feast is far more than a religious observance: it is the very identity of the community. Bivona boasts the oldest cult of Santa Rosalia in Sicily, linked to the miracle that, according to tradition, ended the plague of 1575. The saint was proclaimed patron of the town in 1624, and every September since, the town has renewed its vow of faith.

The Scinnuta and the golden reliquary

The most moving moment is the Scinnuta, the processional descent of the reliquary housing the saint's wooden statue. This masterpiece of 17th-century Sicilian wood carving was created in 1601 by the local priest Ruggero Valenti. Entirely covered in gold and adorned with twelve silver bells, it is welcomed as it exits the Church of Santa Rosalia by the waving of hundreds of white handkerchiefs. Twenty faithful carry it on their shoulders through the festively illuminated streets of the town center.

Tradition, music, and folklore

Throughout the festival, ancient rites alternate with moments of entertainment:

• the 'Ntinna, long golden ceremonial poles passed from hand to hand during the processions;
• the tammurinara (traditional drummers) and local brass bands that enliven the squares from early morning;
• folk groups such as Bivona Folk and marching bands;
• the grand fireworks display that closes the festivities;
• the fair with stalls selling toys and household goods that fills the streets.

The village in celebration

Events take place across Piazza San Giovanni, Piazza Cinà, and Piazza Guglielmo Marconi, featuring solemn masses, tastings of local products, and evenings of music and cabaret. A deeply popular festival that captures the soul of Bivona and the Sicani Mountains better than any guidebook.

The Santa Rosalia Patronal Feast is held in Bivona, in the province of Agrigento, in the Sicily Region.