Festa di San Massimo Patrono

Festival in honour of the Patron Saint of L'Aquila on 10th June 2015

The festival started at 4pm, first with activities geared towards young children and families. There was a religious parade through the historic centre, carrying a statue of San Massimo and accompanied by the youth orchestra. Live bands played in the Piazza Duomo throughout the festival, initially as a backdrop to the activities happening in the tents which popped up around the square - mainly selling food. After the parade, the prizes for a photography competition with the theme 'Witness: Value and Sacrifice' were announced. A sagra style party occured in the evening, with live music, canteen-style food served outdoors, and dancing. People of all ages attended the festival.

The event was organised by the Youth Ministry in honor of L'Aquila's patron, San Massimo d'Aveia. He was born near L'Aquila and was martyred during the persecution of Emperor Decius against Christians. In 1256 his remains were brought to L'Aquila, founded shortly before, and from then on San Massimo was the patron of the city.