Feast of Sant'Antonio Abate in Zafferana Etnea

La Feast of Sant'Antonio Abate in Zafferana Etnea it can reveal itself as a moment capable of bringing not only the faithful closer to the church and to the ecclesiastical moment. In fact, there are numerous reasons to participate in the event and experience moments of culture and tradition, thanks to an initiative that is deeply felt in these parts. Here are the most important points of a celebration to be experienced by citizens and tourists.

Description of the Feast of Sant'Antonio Abate in Zafferana Etnea

The Festa Sant'Antonio Abate in Zafferana Etnea is held to commemorate the namesake Patron saint, with several events with a strong iconic meaning. It is spread over two days. The first provides for the transfer of the relative simulacrum, which is taken from one's usual altar to be placed in the presbytery through a special celebration. Then, the second day, i.e. the main one, is announced by one exchange of cannons very festive, which are activated as soon as the noon time strikes.

In the evening, the time has come to celebrate the Solemn Eucharist at the Mother Church of Zafferana Etnea, which every year welcomes numerous faithful who fill it. At the end of the Holy Mass, the time comes for the distribution of the so-called cuccureddii.e. the traditional ones donuts made of bread, which are blessed by the priest. Finally, the function is concluded with the now usual fireworks, which are fired at Piazza Umberto, that is the main one of the Catania area.

Brief history of the Feast of Sant'Antonio Abate in Zafferana Etnea

The Feast of Sant'Antonio Abate is based on the cult of the homonymous saint. It is said that it arrived during the Byzantine domination, dating back to 1388, and therefore can boast very ancient origins. In reality, in the town of Zafferana Etnea, there is no type of certificate or written document, just as there are no photos left that give the certainty that the cult began in that historical period. One can only stick to the reconstructions due to the memory of the people who have always lived on the island.

When does the Festa Sant'Antonio Abate take place in Zafferana Etnea

Feast of St. Anthony Abate in Zafferana Etnea takes place every year on two specific dates, namely the 16th and 17st January. It is precisely this last day on which the Saint is celebrated, anticipated by various celebrations on the occasion of his eve.

Where the Sant'Antonio Abate Festival takes place in Zafferana Etnea

The Festa Sant'Antonio Abate is held in the town of Zafferana Etnea, which has about 9 inhabitants and belongs to the park of the homonymous volcano, rising on its slopes. It encloses the Bove, Calanna and San Giacomo valleys and is a perfect place for those who love unspoiled nature, not being far from the sea or from cities such as Catania and Taormina.

What to do during the Sant'Antonio Abate Festival in Zafferana Etnea

The Festa Sant'Antonio Abate in Zafferana Etnea is a perfect opportunity to get to know the beauties of a surprising location in depth. There are numerous important churches, among which those dedicated to the patroness stand out Saint Mary of Providence, Maria SS. of the Rosary e San Giuseppe. Also not to be missed are the votive capitals, the Town Hall e Villa Manganelli, In addition to Villa Comunale and all 'Carlin's ilice.

How to reach the Sant'Antonio Abate Festival in Zafferana Etnea

To get to Zafferana Etnea by car, just take the A18 and exit at Giarre or Acireale, both junctions less than 10 kilometers from your destination. By train, the Giarre Riposto railway station is 9 km away.