Feast of San Placido in Biancavilla

San Placido in Biancavilla it is the party dedicated to patron saint of the city and the event involves the entire community. It is one of the most engaging and beautiful events in the Etna area, so much so that it attracts thousands of faithful and devotees.

History of the Patronal Festival of Biancavilla

The festival aims to honor the Patron Saint of Biancavilla, Namely Saint Placido Martyr.
The man has played this role since 1709, but the citizens have been devoted to his cult for much older times.
At the young age of 26, Placido, follower of Saint Benedict of Nursia, became abbot in Messina and on 5 October 541 he was martyred at the hands of a group of pirates led by Mamuca together with thirty other monks, his sister Flavia and his two brothers Vittorio and Eutichio.
The criminals admitted to these atrocities out of hatred for Jesus Christ.

When the Feast of San Placido of Biancavilla takes place

The Patronal Festival of Biancavilla takes place on 5 October of each year.

Where the Feast of San Placido of Biancavilla takes place

La Feast of San Placido in Biancavilla it is held in the city of the same name, more precisely in the respective central area.

What to do in Biancavilla during the Feast of San Placido

On the occasion of the feast, two solemn processional processions will be held: the first opens the feast of San Placido on 5 October and allows the faithful to receive the blessing from the Holy Man, while the second takes place in the evening to greet the locality before to return to Mother Church.
The religious celebrations are accompanied by numerous musical events, shows, concerts plus the final fireworks display.

Once the event is over, it's really worth it visit Biancavilla, as it is full of attractions, just think of the Villa delle Favare, built for the stay of Don Pietro delle Favare, as well as one of the most influential local figures.
The detail capable of capturing the most attention is undoubtedly its square shape consisting of an internal courtyard and two side pavilions. At the main entrance there is the family symbol.
If you head towards the valley below, you will notice several water mills, which have fallen into disuse since the beginning of the twentieth century.
They were used to produce not only wheat flour, but also to grind broad beans, lentils and chickpeas.
Although they are now reduced to ruins, they still retain a certain charm.

How to get to Biancavilla

Biancavilla is about forty minutes awayauto from Catania, of which it also belongs as a province.
To get there you need to take the Strada Statale 121 or the Strada Provinciale 4/11.
Once you reach your destination, it is better to park outside the center.