Feast of Our Lady of the Chain in Librizzi

La Madonna della Catena, patroness of Librizzi, is an authentic symbol of the country. The event related to his party is highly awaited in the locality in province of Messina and in a good part of Sicily. Here's what to know about an initiative that is held annually and is growing visibly.

What to know about the Feast of the Madonna della Catena in Librizzi

La Feast of Our Lady of the Librizzi Chain it is an essential event in the local area. This is an important initiative both from a social and religious point of view. The summer event focuses on the procession of statue of the Madonna della Catena, conceived by Antonino Gagini and preceded by the advent of the other simulacrum of San Michele Arcangelo. The town of Messina is fervently waiting to experience a magical moment in a usual event.

How the Madonna della Catena Festival was born in Librizzi

Since the fourteenth century, devotion towards the Madonna della Catena has been felt with considerable frequency. Everything would have been born from one event considered prodigious, dating back to 1392.

On that occasion, three men were unjustly sent to the gallows. On the day of the execution, once they were taken to the place of their death, a strong storm interrupted the execution. The three were tied in the small church of the port with very strong chains and began to pray under the statue of the Madonna della Catena, so that they could break. The Virgin heard their prayers while the guards fell into a deep sleep. The prisoners were now free and the news spread very quickly.

When the Feast of the Madonna della Catena takes place

The Madonna della Catena Librizzi festival, as well patronal feast of Librizzi, is held every year in Sunday following August 15th, a day better known as Ferragosto. This is an opportunity not to be missed to learn about local folklore and experience firsthand the importance of the protector of the Messina town. For some years, the celebration has been included in the prestigious register of the Intangible Heritage of Sicily.

Where the festival takes place

Librizzi, the venue of the festival, is actually a very small town. It has just over 1500 inhabitants and stands on the edge of a hill approximately 500 meters above sea level, dotted with two streams and about sixty kilometers from the provincial capital Messina. Anyone who comes to these parts can observe a remarkable panorama, represented by the Aeolian Islands and the boundless Tyrrhenian Sea. From the Church of St. Michael the Archangel to that of San Paolo, passing through the one dedicated to the Madonna della Catena, religious symbolism is well rooted.

What to do at the event

The Madonna della Catena Librizzi festival focuses purely on the solemnity of an important religious moment for local citizens. However, there is no shortage of side initiatives capable of making it even more attractive even in the eyes of tourists. There are stands and markets where you can best refresh yourself, spending a day of pure relaxation.

How to get to Librizzi

To reach Librizzi with your own transport, such asauto, it is possible to take the A20 Messina-Buonfornello motorway and exit either at Patti or Falcone. In the first case it takes about 6,5 kilometers to get to the center, while in the second you have to travel about ten. With the train, it is possible to go to the stations of Patti-San Piero Patti and Capo d'Orlando-Naso, from which to take a bus or a shuttle. The nearest airports are located in Reggio Calabria and Catania, approximately 60-70 kilometers from the destination.