Overview
Acknowledged as a UNESCO Intangible World Heritage Site, (together with Gigli di Nola, Varia di Palmi and Candelieri di Sassari), the traditional Feast of Santa Rosa takes place every 3rd September in Viterbo. This fascinating event is held in honour of the patron saint of the city, who died in 1251 at the tender age of eighteen. She is remembered as a young girl who gave her life to God and the poor of her city.
The festivities culminate in a procession during which the monumental Macchina is transported. A “machine” about thirty metres high and weighing fifty tons, lit up by many small flames, it is carried on the shoulders of over 100 brave men along a strenuous 1-kilometre route. Before picking up the machine, the “Facchini”, dressed in white and red, with a handkerchief on their heads, receive an “in articulo mortis” blessing from a bishop, since each journey is life-threatening.
It’s a unique event that has remained the same for over 750 years. Many famous people over the years have witnessed it, including popes and kings but, above all, many ordinary people and the faithful of Viterbo and beyond.
It is an evocative, emotional and spiritual evening, combining faith and performance.
credits Bruno Pagnanelli
Free entry
Free entry
01100 Viterbo, VT, Italy
