Discover
The feast of Sant’Efisio in Sardinia is an extraordinary experience for root tourists.
This event, which has been held every year on May 1st since 1657, has deep roots in the island’s history and culture. The procession, almost 100 kilometers long and involving thousands of participants, represents a journey of faith and devotion imbued with historical significance. By participating in this festival, one can immerse oneself in the authentic traditions of Sardinia, connect with the local community and experience a unique moment that combines spirituality, culture and popular devotion. The feast of Sant’Efisio offers an unmissable opportunity to explore the island’s historical and cultural roots in an authentic and engaging setting.
The feast originates from a promise made on May 1st, 1652 by a group of Cagliari farmers, who implored the help of Sant’Efisio to end a terrible plague that was ravaging the city. The plague ceased, and to thank the saint, the people of Cagliari decided to hold a procession in his honor.
A journey of faith and devotion
The procession of Sant’Efisio is a massive event, involving thousands of people. The statue of the saint is carried on the shoulders of a group of faithful, who take turns along the way and is accompanied by folk groups in traditional Sardinian costume, with different characteristics depending on the country of origin.
The procession route is about 80 kilometers long and passes through several towns in Sardinia. The route was chosen to retrace what Sant’Efisio did in 1652, when he traveled from Cagliari to Pula to ask for an end to the plague.
Along the route, the procession is greeted with great devotion by the faithful, who offer prayers and songs. People living in the towns through which the procession passes prepare for the event well in advance, decorating the streets and houses with flowers and flags.
An event celebrating Sardinian faith and culture
The feast of Sant’Efisio is an event deeply felt by the Sardinian population. The popular devotion to Sant’Efisio is evidenced by the assiduous participation of many in the procession.
The faithful who participate in the procession are of all ages and come from all over Sardinia. The procession is an opportunity to renew one’s faith and to ask for the saint’s intercession for oneself and loved ones.
The feast of Sant’Efisio is also an important cultural event, celebrating Sardinian culture. The procession is accompanied by folk groups in Sardinian costume, dancing and singing in honor of the saint. Sardinian folk groups are an important part of Sardinian culture. Their traditional costumes, dances and songs are an expression of Sardinia’s history and tradition.
An event not to be missed
The feast of Sant’Efisio is a unique and fascinating event, representing an important part of Sardinian culture. The procession is an experience that remains etched in the memory of those who experience it.
Days
01 May 24
04 May 24
From
Information/To know
Suitable for Everybody
Wheelchair accessible
Location/The place
Address
Cagliari, CA, Italia
How to get there
How to get to Cagliari: If you're coming from the north, you can take the SS131, which crosses the island from north to south, connecting cities like Sassari, Nuoro, and Oristano to Cagliari. If you are coming from the east, for example from Villasimius or Muravera, you can take the SS125, which will take you to Cagliari. If you are coming from the west, for example from Oristano or Alghero, you can take the SS131 and then the SS131dir to Cagliari. If you are coming from the south, for example from Iglesias or Carbonia, you can take the SS130 and then the SS131 to Cagliari.
