The Illuminated Staircase - 24 and 25 July 2022 Patronal feast of Caltagirone
Every year, on the evenings of 24 and 25 July, in Caltagirone, on the occasion of the feast of the Patron Saint, the staircase of Santa Maria del Monte lights up and shines with colored little flames, offering a show of art and lights unique in the world and of great charm.
The tradition of the illuminated staircase dates back to the seventeenth century but found its highest expression with Father Benedetto Papale, creator of all the light designs made on the staircase of Santa Maria del Monte. The priest places on the 142 steps, famous for their majolica risers, paper cups in white, red and green, opaque and transparent, lit inside by small terracotta lamps filled with oil.
Today the placing of the lighted flames is entrusted to the Russo family, who for generations have strictly prepared by hand hundreds of cups containing the LUMERA, filled with oil and with a wick, then arranging them on the steps according to themed designs inspired by the city and the Patron Saint of Caltagirone: Saint James.
At dusk, the cups are lit, leaving all those present amazed.
