The first weekend of September marks the highlight of the patronal feast of the city of Brindisi, in honor of San Teodoro of Amasea and San Lorenzo.
During these days there will be many solemn ceremonies in different churches, as well as festive activities, including a spectacular fireworks show, famous throughout Puglia. If you’re in Brindisi, make sure to stop by. Below is a selection from the program:
FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 5
9:30 PM – Il Palio dell’Arca di San Teodoro: a legendary race with traditional fishermen’s boats in the harbor of Brindisi. Best viewed from the Virgilio staircase.
SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 6
09:30 AM – Guided tour along the churches of the historic center, organized by the association Le Colonne. Starting point: Virgilio staircase.
7 PM – SOLEMN SEA PROCESSION with the relics and statues of the patron saints, from the tourist harbor to the inner harbor, with landing at the quay in front of the Virgilio staircase – TV broadcast live on Antenna Sud. Speeches by the ARCHBISHOP and the MAYOR, the handing over of the keys of the city, and the raising of the Flag of Peace.
Around 9 PM – Fireworks show
Best viewed from the seafront of Brindisi. Afterwards – SOLEMN PROCESSION with the relics and statues of the patron saints, from the landing quay to the Cathedral Basilica.
SUNDAY, SEPTEMBER 7
10 AM and 11:30 AM – HOLY MASS at the Cathedral Basilica
8 PM – SOLEMN PONTIFICAL MASS, celebrated by H.E. Mons. Giovanni Intini, Archbishop of Brindisi-Ostuni – Piazza Duomo – live TV broadcast on Antenna Sud.
MONDAY, SEPTEMBER 8
7 PM – HOLY MASS at the Cathedral Basilica
8 PM – PROCESSION with the relics of San Lorenzo da Brindisi, from the Cathedral Basilica to the Sanctuary of Santa Maria degli Angeli, passing through the main crossroads, and returning to the Cathedral.
In addition, the city center will host plenty of activities, stalls, and lots of festive atmosphere.