The patronal feast of Saint Irene, which is held on May 5th, this year – given that the date falls on a Sunday – will experience its main religious moments on Saturday May 4th. The entire program is attached. To liven up the party, this year artistic lights were set up and a fireworks display was organised.
History of the festival
The historical origin of the elevation of Saint Irene as protector of Altamura is rooted in ancient devotion. It is said that Altamura, being particularly exposed to bad weather with lightning strikes due to its elevated position close to the Murge, chose her as its patron saint because prayers for her intercession managed to put an end to a terrible scourge. In 1726 lightning struck more frequently and with significant damage to the Cathedral, to the houses of the city and the countryside, also causing the death of people and animals. Prayers to the saint made the storm stop. Two years later Saint Irene became patron saint of Altamura. As a sign of thanks it was decided to paint the image of the Saint and the painting was placed in the Cathedral and a polychrome wooden statue was created.
