On February 5th, inside the tightly packed Elephant Square, hundreds of thousands of Catanians will honor their beloved Saint Agata. Devotees wear white tunics and carry heavy wax candles to offer a physical sacrifice to the saint. When the Vara, a 16-foot silver carriage holding the saint’s relics, makes its appearance, the crowd bursts into raucous applause. Elaborate fireworks explode over the crowd as the Vara starts its slow procession over Via Etnea up to Piazza Cavour. Several hours later, the saint will be returned to the Cathedral. It gets very crowded, so be prepared. And, if you want to fit in, wear white.
All of these traditional celebrations—from the procession to the food—recall St. Agata’s martyrdom. Often shown holding her breasts on a platter, Sicilains remember her resistance to a Roman Consul who wanted her to renounce her faith. Salmone Santino, the Diocesan Museum director, notes that this celebration is one of the three largest celebrations in the world including Spain and Mexico. “Whether you believe or not, Catania has been greatly influenced by this story,” he added.
And of course, after a long night of celebrating, ya gotta eat. Visit a pastry shop to try some of the delicious desserts made during this festival. There, taste the green olivette di Sant’Agata that are made with marzipan. These treats remind us of the legend that said olive trees sprouted where St. Agata had stepped on her way to her trial. Some are also available with chocolate. In addition, try the cassatine, small breast-shaped pastries that remind us of the torture she underwent. Yep, they are even decorated with a candied cherry on top. If there’s still room in your tummy, try the orange cake or the apple cake.
