Festival of Saint Efisio

Festival of Saint Efisio Italy

The Festa di Sant’Efisio takes place annually from May 1 to 4. As the most important religious and cultural event in Sardinia, it has been held since 1657 to honor Saint Efisio, a Roman soldier and Christian martyr. A grand procession is organized in his honor, lasting four days and covering the route from Cagliari to Nora. This festival represents a profound blend of Christian devotion, traditional art, and local costume.

01.05.2025 / 04.05.2025

Cagliari, Sardinia

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The procession starts in Cagliari and covers around 65 kilometers to Nora. Along the way, it stops in several towns and villages, where prayers and blessings are offered. The journey unfolds in a traditional and festive spirit: participants wear traditional costumes reflecting the local heritage, and folk groups parade, sing, and dance.

Key symbols are displayed during the festival, including a commemorative mass held in Nora to honor the martyrdom of Saint Efisio. The highlight of the procession is the statue of Saint Efisio himself, carried in a beautifully decorated ox-drawn carriage throughout the journey before being brought back to Cagliari.

Youth play an active role in the festival, mainly through participation in the folk groups that join the procession. From an early age, they help with preparations and religious rites. Today, they also promote the celebration on social media, helping to connect this centuries-old tradition with modern platforms.