The Feast of St Joseph is one of the best-loved celebrations in San Martino in Pensilis. It is lived not only in church but above all in people’s homes, where families prepare altars dedicated to the saint and open them to relatives, neighbours and visitors.
The altars of St Joseph
In the days before the feast, altars are set up in homes across the village. They are decorated with images of the saint, flowers, candles and hand-shaped breads. It is an act of devotion, often a vow, that involves whole families for weeks.
On the evening of 18 March the village walks from altar to altar. In every home, visitors are welcomed with screppelle, the traditional fritters of the feast.
19 March: the thirteen dishes
On the feast day the altars offer the 13 dishes, simple recipes from the farming tradition handed down through generations. Among them are maccarune c’a mejjiche, macaroni dressed with toasted breadcrumbs.
Procession and bonfires
The feast ends with the procession in honour of the saint and the traditional St Joseph’s bonfires, around which the community gathers to welcome the coming of spring.
The church of San Giuseppe
In the village centre stands the church dedicated to the saint. It was rebuilt in 1728, and the date 1410 is carved on its bell tower.
Taking part
Everyone is welcome: visiting the altars is the best way to experience San Martino’s hospitality. The programme is published every year by the parish and the municipality.
