Feast of Maria Santissima di Custonaci

The Feast of Maria Santissima di Custonaci is one of the oldest and most heartfelt religious celebrations in Western Sicily. This event dates back to the 16th century and is closely tied to the legend of the miraculous arrival of the painting of the Madonna in the Gulf of Cornino.

Tradition tells that a ship, caught in a sea storm, found refuge in the bay, and as a token of gratitude, the sailors left the painting of the Madonna to the local community. This episode gave rise to the veneration of Maria Santissima di Custonaci, now honoured as the patron saint of the town and the surrounding areas of Erice and Valderice.

The celebrations in honour of Custonaci's patron saint take place every year over four days, during the last week of August, and culminate in the grand procession on Wednesday. During the feast, the town comes alive with religious events, historical reenactments, and folkloric celebrations that engage both residents and visitors.

On the last Sunday of August, a solemn Mass at the Sanctuary of Maria Santissima di Custonaci inaugurates the celebrations for the Madonna. On this occasion, the mayor symbolically hands over the keys of the city to the Virgin.

One of the most evocative moments of the celebration is the reenactment of the historic landing of the painting of the Madonna at Cornino Bay. On the evening of the last Monday of August, at Cala Bukuto beach, a boat symbolically brings the sacred icon ashore, welcomed by traditional songs. After the landing, a solemn procession accompanies the Virgin to the Sanctuary of Maria Santissima di Custonaci. This event attracts thousands of faithful and visitors every year

The celebrations continue on Tuesday with a parade of historical and allegorical floats depicting scenes from the life of the Madonna. Wednesday is the concluding day of the feast, with the solemn procession of the effigy through the streets of Custonaci's historic centre, followed by a spectacular fireworks display that lights up the sky.

Useful Information about the Event:

Period: The feast takes place from the last Sunday of August until the following Wednesday.

Main Locations: Sanctuary of Maria SS. di Custonaci, Baia di Cornino, and the historic centre of Custonaci.

Side Events: Musical performances, folk group exhibitions, and cultural manifestations that enrich the visitors' experience.

Experience the devotion and traditions of Custonaci with an authentic journey through faith, history, and Sicilian folklore.