TAVOLATE DI SAN GIUSEPPE
In March in Valguarnera and Leonforte there are the tables of Saint Joseph. During the celebration of the saint on March 19, people prepare the tables that are also called “altars” in different parts of the village, including private homes. Full of traditional dishes, breads and pastries, the tables are open to anyone who wants to be part of them, and prepared by loyal devotees to thank the Saint. This tradition is centuries old, when the poor were invited to the table and the landlord provided for the ritual of washing the feet.
U SIGNURI DI LI FASCI
On Good Friday in Pietraperzia, near Enna, there is a procession, called U Signuri di li Fasci. This name indicates the crucifix over 8 meters high, to which are attacked about 200 white linen bands, about 30 meters long. The crucifix is carried in procession by 80 faithful. Between the carriers and the bands holders, about 500 people will “support” and lead the crucifix in perfect sync. The procession is solemn and impressive, unique in its kind.
U signuri di li fasci photo ennapress
SETTIMANA SANTA
The Holy Week of Enna is listed as a UNESCO intangible heritage, its origins date back to the Spanish domination. During the procession the brotherhoods wear the characteristic hooded dresses and each one has specific features and origins, some of them date back to the thirteenth century, to the latest founded in the 2000s.
SETTIMANA FEDERICIANA
In May in Enna there’s the Federiciana week, a reenactment of the sixteenth, with various events including “the arrival of Frederick II Castrogiovanni” with an historical parade in costume through the streets of the town, Castrogiovanni was the ancient name of Enna and for the occasion the town goes back in time even with medieval games such as Archers Tournament and the Palio of the Districts. An excellent opportunity to taste the traditional local products, and get involved by guided tours organized for the occasion.
Holy Week Enna
PALIO DEI NORMANNI
In August in Piazza Armerina there is the historical commemoration called the Norman Palio. Also called the “ride” by the inhabitants, the event was created in the 50’s, but its origins date back to the fourteenth century for the festivities of Our Lady of Victories, linked to the liberation of Sicily by the Saracens. The Palio sees over 600 actors and takes place in three exciting days with: The delivery of weapons, the delivery of the keys, and the Quintana del Saraceno, the race itself consisting of 4 tests.
FESTA DELLA MADONNA DEL BUON RIPOSO
On the first week of September in Calascibetta there’s the Festival of Our Lady of Good Rest. The Sanctuary is located near the town, where long ago the miners found a rock that had the features of the Madonna. Today the festival is linked to the palio of the Berbers, an exciting horse race without saddle.
