The Feast of Saint Joseph, as is traditional in many Sicilian towns, is a ritual appointment rich in symbolism that goes beyond the canonical liturgical elements of Catholicism. The main features are those shared with many other feasts dedicated to the foster father of Baby Jesus: the solemn procession through the town’s streets and the preparation of richly laid tables featuring traditional foods mainly tied to the season.

These tables are loaded with symbolic foods rooted in Christian tradition. Beyond the usual procession, one of the most evocative aspects of the Feast of Saint Joseph is the setting up of an altar with its accompanying tables full of varied dishes. This tradition is passed down from generation to generation, keeping the bond with faith and folk culture alive. In Bivona, this is enriched by the concept of prummisioni – tables set up by individuals or families who feel a duty to do so either for a received grace or in the hope of obtaining one.

Here, the prummisioni is quite costly, receiving no support beyond the family context. Unfortunately, this means that it sometimes becomes impossible to prepare a table at all. However, when one is set up, lu Sanciseppi often becomes an opportunity to show generosity on the part of the host. On March 19, the “Saints’ lunch,” a display of charity and brotherly hospitality, is concretely represented by the meal served to poor individuals invited to dine and to whom all displayed items are later donated.

The Catholic devotion to Saint Joseph has deep roots, intertwining with popular traditions throughout history. March 19th  marks a special day for many Sicilian communities, coinciding with the arrival of spring and evoking ancient agricultural and fertility rituals.

Looking back, Saint Joseph’s devotion links with ancient mystery and agricultural traditions, especially prevalent in cereal-based Mediterranean societies. Preserving and promoting the Feast of Saint Joseph is essential, as it is tied to a centuries-old tradition that unites and symbolizes a community’s popular identity. A key aspect of every Sanciseppi is the singing of Pòpulu me, a Lenten lament from Bivona’s oral tradition, devoutly performed in front of the table on the vigil of the feast. This should prompt reflection on the importance of preserving such identity and finding ways to revitalize lost memories.

 

This element has been included in the Register of Intangible Heritage of local interest of the Municipality of Bivona, as part of Intervention 6 “Activation of the Observatory on the Intangible Cultural Heritage of the Territory through the application of the REIL methodology – Register of Intangible Heritage of Local Interest”, within the “ Metasicani effetto farfalla” project, funded by the NRRP (National Recovery and Resilience Plan), Mission: Digitalisation, innovation, competitiveness, culture and tourism, Component: Tourism and culture 4.0, Investment 2.1 “Attractiveness of villages.” CUP: J79I22000180006.