SS. Crocifisso Festival

A festival in the heart of the Madonie

The SS. Crocifisso Festival is one of the most cherished events in the religious and civil calendar of Collesano, an ancient medieval village nestled on the slopes of the Madonie mountains, in the province of Palermo. Every year, on September 13th and 14th, the town unites around its co-patron in a blend of devotion, music, and folk tradition that involves the entire community and many locals returning home for the occasion.

The statue by Fra' Umile da Petralia

At the heart of the festivities lies the venerated wooden Crucifix, a masterpiece carved around 1635 by the renowned friar and sculptor Fra' Umile Pintorno da Petralia, one of the most significant figures in 17th-century Sicilian sacred art. On February 11, 1635, the work was blessed and carried in procession to the Church of Santa Maria di Gesù, where it was placed in a specially decorated chapel. The fervor of the faithful led the city magistrates to proclaim the SS. Crocifisso co-patron of Collesano, and the cult has been guarded ever since by the Friars Minor of the S. Maria di Gesù convent.

Two days of celebration

The festivities, in their current form established in 1957, are divided into a religious and a civil program. Spiritual preparation includes a novena in the preceding days; the September 13th features the Eucharistic celebration, while September 14th hosts the solemn mass, including the act of entrusting the city of Collesano to the SS. Crocifisso, traditionally read by the Mayor.

The procession and performances

The highlight is the solemn procession of the statue through the streets of the historic center, accompanied by brotherhoods, clergy, and civil and military authorities. The tradition includes the evocative «Vulata ri l'ancili» (Flight of the Angels) and the participation of the A.C.A.M. «F.sco Mauro» marching band, while the festival concludes with a fireworks display at the sports field.

• Solemn procession of the Crucifix through the village streets
• The historic Singing Competition for children and amateurs, with the awarding of the prestigious «Golden Crucifix»
• Band concerts and entertainment
• Final fireworks display

Collesano and its traditions

Visiting Collesano during the festival means discovering a village with a rich artistic and religious heritage, immersed in the landscape of the Madonie Park. Between churches, medieval corners, and the warm welcome of the community, the SS. Crocifisso Festival remains a privileged opportunity to experience the authentic identity of this corner of Sicily.