The Feast of Saint Elias in Nuragus

The festival in honor of Saint Elias held in Nuragus has very ancient origins, tracing back to the Byzantine period. Over the centuries it became increasingly important for the whole area; particularly when in the Middle Ages and until the 19th century, the shrine played a role of great religious importance. The event is celebrated every year from July 5 to 7, maintaining the original characteristics of a religious, social and country festival. The festivities begin with a mass held in the Elysian church, followed by a procession led by 40 horsemen and amazons, accompanied by the village band and traditional music groups. The procession, which makes its way to the shrine, passes through a route decorated with a marvelous floral display and is greeted by the cheerful ringing of the shrine's bells, which are still rung according to tradition. The following day there is a mass dedicated to the sick and the distribution of blessed bread, while the evening is enlivened by musical performances. The last day of the festivities sees the holding of a new procession that travels the road in reverse, starting from the shrine and returning to the parish church.