The Feast of Saint Agatha, celebrated annually in Catania from February 3rd to 5th, is one of the most important religious events in the world, ranking third after Holy Week in Seville and Corpus Christi in Cuzco1. In 2025, this centuries-old tradition will continue to attract thousands of devotees and visitors, offering a spectacle of faith, folklore, and Sicilian culture.
Historical Origins
Saint Agatha, born around 230 AD to a noble Christian family in Catania, lived during a period of Roman persecution against Christians2. Her decision to consecrate herself to God led to her martyrdom in 251 AD under the proconsul Quintianus2. Veneration for Saint Agatha began immediately after her martyrdom, but the first significant celebrations date back to August 17, 1126, when her relics, previously stolen, were returned to Catania31.
Structure of the Festival
The Feast of Saint Agatha takes place mainly from February 3rd to 5th, with additional celebrations on February 12th and August 17th3. Here’s an overview of the main days:
February 3rd
The festival begins with the procession of the twelve candelore, imposing decorated wooden structures representing the ancient guilds of arts and crafts of Catania1. These candelore, weighing between 400 and 900 kg, parade through the city streets, creating a unique spectacle. The day ends with fireworks in Piazza Duomo, known as “sira ‘o tri”1.
February 4th
After the dawn mass, Saint Agatha’s fercolo (reliquary bust) is carried in procession through the outer part of the city1. This route evokes the places linked to the saint’s martyrdom. One of the most characteristic events of the festival takes place on this day: the ascent of San Giuliano, where devotees pull the fercolo up a steep slope1.
February 5th
On the last day of the festival, the fercolo travels through the inner streets of the city. The procession concludes with the return of the reliquary bust to the Cathedral, marking the official end of the celebrations4.
Traditions and Symbols
The Feast of Saint Agatha is rich in traditions and symbols:
- The White Sack: Devotees wear a white sackcloth, which according to tradition recalls the night of August 17, 1126, when the people of Catania welcomed the saint’s relics still in their nightshirts1.
- “Semu tutti devoti tutti”: This cry of devotion accompanies the procession, uniting the faithful in a collective chorus1.
- The Minne di Sant’Agata: Typical breast-shaped sweets that recall the saint’s martyrdom and are a local variant of Sicilian cassata1.
Cultural and Tourist Impact
The Feast of Saint Agatha is not only a religious event but also an important tourist and cultural attraction for Catania. Each year, the city prepares to welcome thousands of visitors, offering a unique experience that blends faith, history, and local traditions4.
Preparations for 2025
For 2025, Catania is expected to prepare with particular care to welcome devotees and tourists. Local authorities, the Church, and devotee associations will work together to ensure that the festival maintains its traditional character while ensuring the safety and comfort of all participants4.
Conclusion
The Feast of Saint Agatha 2025 promises to be, as every year, an extraordinary event that unites faith, culture, and tradition. For three days, Catania will transform into a living stage of popular devotion, offering visitors an unforgettable experience of authentic Sicilian culture. Whether you are a devotee, curious, or simply a lover of culture, the Feast of Saint Agatha will welcome you with the warmth and enthusiasm typical of the people of Sicily.
