The Fanòve of Castellana Grotte
The Fanòve of Castellana Grotte: a festival of light, faith, and tradition illuminating the historic center every January 11th.
Castellana Grotte is a municipality in the metropolitan city of Bari, in Puglia, known for its extraordinary karst complex. Every year, on the night of January 11th, the town transforms into a magical place thanks to the celebration of the Fanòve. These large bonfires illuminate the historic center, creating an atmosphere of festivity, faith, and tradition.
The Fanòve, or Fanòve in the local dialect, are lit in honor of the Madonna della Vetrana, the patron saint of Castellana Grotte. According to tradition, the Virgin saved the town from a terrible plague epidemic in the 17th century. As a sign of gratitude, the citizens light the bonfires each year to commemorate that miracle, making the festival an act of devotion and a moment of social and cultural unity.
Each neighborhood or group of citizens actively participates in building its own bonfire, using wood, bundles, and natural materials. The main bonfires are located in the squares and along the streets of the old village, while other fires are set up along the path leading to the mother church of San Leone Magno, one of the symbolic places of the city.
During the evening, a procession moves through the streets of the town, with faithful and visitors carrying candles and lanterns. The atmosphere is intense, enriched by the smell of burning wood, religious songs, and moments of reflection. The night of the Fanòve is a moment of spiritual preparation, culminating in a solemn mass at the church of San Leone Magno, which precedes the celebrations for the Madonna della Vetrana, celebrated on January 12th.
The church, with its imposing architecture, becomes the center of popular devotion. Thousands of people, coming from nearby towns, participate in the celebration, creating a deep bond between the community and its faith.
Visiting Castellana Grotte during the night of the Fanòve is a unique experience. It is an opportunity to discover an authentic tradition, passed down from generation to generation. The atmosphere is filled with human warmth, spirituality, and festivity. Next to the bonfires, small stalls are often organized, where people sing and dance. Families gather, children are mesmerized by the flames, and tourists can immerse themselves in a culture that is still alive.
Those who arrive in Castellana Grotte for the Fanòve can also take the opportunity to visit the famous Castellana Caves. Located about 1.5 km from the town center, the caves are one of the most spectacular karst complexes in Italy. Open year-round, they offer tourist paths of varying lengths, up to 3 km. The caves impress with their variety of shapes, colors, and formations, with the Grotta Bianca considered one of the brightest cavities in Europe.
The best time to experience the Fanòve is, of course, January. The event takes place every year on January 11th. Those wishing to visit the caves can do so at any time, but participating in the festival adds extra value to the stay. The Fanòve of Castellana Grotte are not just a festival: they are the beating heart of local tradition, an event that unites faith, history, and community, capable of moving anyone who participates.
