Porto Torres: tradition and devotion of Festha manna

For the inhabitants of Porto Torres, it’s a very, very awaited event. Because, for them, it is one of the most important religious moments of the year. An opportunity during which it’s possible to discover the traditions of the place. This is the Festha manna, which will tale place on May 14, 15 and 16.

The event

The first day of Festha manna is May 14. At midnight, faithful and pilgrims arrive in Basilica di San Gavino to attend Mass at 4am. Pentecost Sunday (May 15) is the day of the solemn procession: the wooden statues of the martyrs Gavino, Proto and Gianuario are carried from Balai Vicino to the basilica walking along the seafront and the streets of Porto Torres.

The real Festha manna begins on the day after Pentecost (May 16). After the Mass in the morning and the “blessing of the sea”, will take place events in the street, exhibitions and tastings.

The palio di Santu Bainzu

The horse race, which is usually will take place the week after or, in general, in June, is the continuation of Festha manna. The palio takes place, in honour of San Gavino (Santu Bainzu), in via Mare, near the Aragonese tower.

A city to discover

• May could be the best time to visit Porto Torres. An ancient city that has several things to see, such as basilica di San Gavino, palazzo di Re Barbaro, Maetzke thermae baths and Pallottino thermae baths.
• And, always in May, you could bathe in the sea for the first time of the year: some of the most beautiful beaches of Porto Torres are Balai, Scogliolungo and Acque Dolci.
• In Porto Torres and surroundings, the best excursions are Stintino, the wonderful Asinara Island, the nuraghi, the domus de janas.

Further information

For further information about Festha manna in Porto Torres, you can visit Porto Torre municipality official website, Comune.porto-torres.ss.it.

Image source: Flickr.com/photos/alwaysstone