The feast of the patron saint of Melfi in the heart of Lucanian winter
As February gets underway, Melfi celebrates its patron saint: Saint Alexander, whose solemnity falls on February 9th. It is an intimate and profound celebration, experienced primarily in its religious and community dimensions, marking the winter calendar of the city of Vulture.
The feast is not confined to the patron saint's day alone; it is preceded by a novena and a series of spiritual events that animate the Cathedral of Santa Maria Assunta, the Duomo of Melfi. Through rosaries, solemn masses, Eucharistic days, and moments of cultural reflection, the community prepares for the day of Saint Alexander, presided over by the Bishop of the diocese of Melfi-Rapolla-Venosa.
Among the most anticipated events is the concert by the Melfi Musical Band, which on the evening of February 9th brings its music to the heart of the city, blending devotional, festive, and popular elements.
The 2026 edition holds particular significance: it marks the 400th anniversary of the arrival of Saint Alexander's relics in Melfi and the 950th anniversary of the Cathedral, two anniversaries that intertwine the religious and civil history of the city. An opportunity to rediscover the deep bond between Melfi, its cathedral, and the patron saint who has accompanied its history for centuries, within the context of the diocese and the Province of Potenza.
The celebrations for Saint Alexander 2026 begin on January 31st with the novena and continue until February 9th, the day of the solemnity. The program, published by the Diocese of Melfi-Rapolla-Venosa, alternates moments of prayer, Eucharistic days, and cultural events, in a year made special by the 400th anniversary of the arrival of the relics and the 950th anniversary of the Cathedral.
Melfi can be reached via the Candela exit on the A16, then SS 655 and SS 658. The celebrations take place in the Cathedral, in the historic center.
Religious services and the band concert are free to attend.
Diocese of Melfi-Rapolla-Venosa - www.diocesimelfi.it
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Cattedrale di Santa Maria Assunta (Duomo di Melfi)