La Festa di Sant'Agata e Caltagirone

After I arrived in Catania, I learned that the city was celebrating its annual "Festa di Sant'Agata" (Festival of Saint Agatha), the patron saint of Catania. Legends tells us that Sant'Agata dedicated her life to God and refused to marry. One man, Quintian, held great power in society and tried to force her to change her mind by making her live in a brothel. When she continued to resist and preach the word of God, her breasts her cut off and her naked body was rolled over hot coals, and she died a martyr. In Catania, she was asked for help during an eruption of Mt. Etna, and the people of Catania believe she now protects the city from the volcano. She is the protector against fire. The festival of Sant'Agata takes place on February 3-5, and on the last day there is an all-night procession of her remains through the city. The procession begins at the cathedral in the Piazza del Duomo down Via Etnea which proceeds towards Mt. Etna. 

The celebrations were magnificent. On the last night we went to the Piazza del Duomo for the beginning of the procession and the firework display. I can honestly say that it was the most amazing display of fireworks I think I have ever seen.

 These candelore are carried on the shoulders of devotees during the processions

 The devotees carrying the extremely heavy candelore

 The Piazza del Duomo before the fireworks and procession of Sant'Agata

 Me and Ida at the Piazza

The all-night procession of Sant'Agata

We also went to the city of Caltagirone, the "Queen of the Hills." The city is famous for its beautiful ceramics of vibrant colors. We spent the afternoon wandering the quiet streets (much of the shops were closed for the day) and taking in the remarkable colors that make up the city. The Scala Santa Maria del Monte are the 142 steps leading to the church of the same name, and they are decorated with ceramic tiles in blue, yellow, green, and white. I took great comfort here. Walking through the empty streets with the sun on my face and the beautiful view gave me great solace. We also went to a family friend's house where he works as a ceramic artist. If I had a million dollars, I would have bought his entire collection of vases and dishes. 

 Ida and Antonella

 Che bellissima!