October’s Florentine Tradition: The Feast of Santa Reparata

By Erin Gage

With so many students freshly joining the wider Florentine community as they get into the rhythm of school work, we here at Marist Italy feels it is important to give you an introduction to the vibrant traditions occurring each month. Integrating into a new culture can be intimidating, however learning about vibrant communities and their cultures helps for more enriching experience. So let’s dive a bit deeper in our cultural exploration, past delicious pastas and stunning architecture, into the spirit of the city and its colorful community.

This month, there is one particularly fascinating event; the Feast of Santa Reparata. On Wednesday, October 8th from 10:00 – 11:00 a.m, a parade will proceed from Palagio di Parte Guelfa to the Duomo to honor the co-patron saint of Florence.

The ancient celebrations take on a new life in the present through the procession dedicated to the saint. Participants in the festival wear historical costumes, typically in the Renaissance style. This October 8th, follow the parade that proceeds from the Palagio di Parte Guelfa to the Duomo where a ceremony will be held among the remains of the ancient church in the Duomo’s crypt. The ceremony consists of a Mass and a blessing issued upon the city. All this to be said, don’t be surprised when you’re walking to class this Wednesday and happen upon a (substantially) large crowd around the Duomo!

If you’re curious about the historic church, whose remains acts as the crypt of Florence’s beloved cathedral, it is possible to visit outside of the festival hours! Remember to purchase a ticket at the Opera del Duomo that’s located in the same piazza as its namesake.

Read more:  

• https://duomo.firenze.it/en/opera-magazine/post/5143/santa-reparata
• https://www.feelflorence.it/en/events/feast-santa-reparata