The night of the 17th August the sound of bells woke up the people of Catania announcing the return of the mortal remains of St. Agatha from Constantinople.

The citizens came out their houses barefoot and in their nightgowns to greet the arrival of the Saint. This is the reason why during the feast devotees wear white dresses (called “sacco”), that represent the white clothes of those citizens.

The historic encounter between the people of Catania and St. Agatha’s remains occurred in the district of Ognina, where a church was built. In 1381, during an eruption, the church was surrounded by lava without being destroyed, but over the years it was abandoned and left to decay.

This feast is celebrated to a much lesser extent than the one in February, but nevertheless attracts thousands of believers, tourists and curious onlookers.

The celebration starts in the morning with different liturgies at the Cathedral dedicated to St. Agatha. In the evening at 20.30, there is a short procession near the Cathedral and piazza Duomo.

The reliquary casket and the half bust of St. Agatha go around from piazza Duomo to Uzeda Door, via Dusmet, via Porticello, piazza San Placido, via Vittorio Emanuele II and then come back to piazza Duomo.

As every celebration of the Patron Saint of Catania, this feast is also features spectacular fireworks in piazza Borsellino when the relics leave and return to the Cathedral.

A short procession through the historic streets of Catania yet celebrated in great style!

So if you are here, our advice is to forego a day at the beach to watch this feast that is more intimate yet equally evocative and cherished by the people of Catania.

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