An authentic experience between sea and nature
The Festa degli Schietti, held in Terrasini during the Easter period, is an ancient tradition rooted in Sicilian popular culture. This unique event, rich in symbolism and folklore, attracts thousands of curious visitors every year to witness a ritual that celebrates strength, faith and the bond with the land.
What is the Feast of Schietti?
The Festa degli Schietti, also known as ‘Festa di li Schietti’ or ‘Festa dell’Albero’, is an event held in Terrasini, a coastal municipality in the province of Palermo, on Holy Saturday and Easter Sunday. The undisputed protagonist of the festival is the melangolo tree, a citrus fruit with bitter fruit and resistant wood, which is hoisted and carried in procession by the ‘schietti’, the town’s bachelors.
A plunge into history: the origins of the Schietti Festival
The origins of the Schietti Festival are lost in the mists of time, shrouded in an aura of mystery and fascination. Some scholars believe that the event has pagan roots, linked to propitiatory rites of spring and fertility. The tree, a symbol of life and rebirth, was offered to the deity to ensure a good harvest and prosperity for the community.
Others , however, link the festival to the Christian tradition, seeing in the melangolo tree a symbol of the cross and the resurrection of Christ. The raising of the tree, in this interpretation, would represent the victory of life over death, the hope that is reborn after the sacrifice.
Whatever its origin, the Festa degli Schietti is today a combination of pagan and Christian elements, an example of how Sicilian popular culture has been able to integrate and reinterpret different traditions, creating a unique and meaningful event .
How the Festa degli Schietti takes place: a ritual of strength and devotion
The festival begins at dawn on Holy Saturday, when the outspoken, young bachelors of the village go to the countryside to choose the most suitable melangolo tree. Choosing the tree is a crucial moment , requiring experience and knowledge: the tree must be strong and durable, able to bear the weight of the procession and the riser.
Once the tree has been chosen, the schietti cut it down and transport it to the village, where it is decorated with flowers, colourful ribbons and sacred images. In the afternoon, the ‘schietti test’ takes place: the young people take turns attempting to lift the tree with one hand, demonstrating their strength and skill. As well as being a moment of spectacle and competition, this test also has a symbolic value: it represents the physical and moral strength of the schietti, their ability to overcome difficulties and complete a demanding task.
On Easter Sunday , the tree is carried in procession through the streets of the village, accompanied by the brass band and a festive crowd. The procession is a moment of great popular participation, in which the community huddles around the tree, sharing the joy and fatigue of the ritual. The atmosphere is charged with emotion and devotion as the tree, symbol of rebirth and hope, slowly advances towards the main square.
The procession ends in the main square, where the tree is raised in front of the church, in a blaze of applause and shouts of joy. The raising of the tree is a culminating moment, which requires the cooperation of all the schietti: together, with a collective effort, they hoist the tree skywards, in a gesture that symbolises the union of the community and its faith.
Why visit Terrasini during the Festa degli Schietti?
Visiting Terrasini during the Festa degli Schietti is a unique and enthralling experience that will allow you to:
- witness an ancient tradition: immerse yourself in the festive atmosphere and participate in a ritual that has been handed down for centuries, discover the charm of Sicilian folklore.
- Admire the strength and skill of the schietti: be fascinated by the’ schiettitest ‘ and the procession of the tree, witnessing a tradition that celebrates physical and moral strength.
- Discover the natural beauty of Terrasini: explore the Capo Rama Oriented Nature Reserve, a paradise for trekkers and birdwatchers, and admire the suggestive Calarossa reef, with its crystal-clear waters and sea caves.
- Get to know the locals: get in touch with the warm hospitality of the people of Terras and discover their culture and traditions, living an authentic and unforgettable experience.
- Savour traditional Sicilian Easter sweets: During the festivities and surrounding days, you will have the opportunity to taste typical Sicilian Easter sweets such as cassata, cannoli and colombe, prepared according to ancient recipes handed down from generation to generation.
How to reach Terrasini
Terrasini is easily accessible from the main Sicilian cities:
- From Palermo: it is about 30 kilometres away and is connected by a regular bus service. By car , take the A29 motorway towards Trapani, exit Terrasini.
- From Trapani: this is about 100 kilometres away and can be reached by car via the A29 motorway in the direction of Palermo, Terrasini exit. Alternatively, you can take the train or bus to Palermo and then continue by bus to Terrasini.
- From Catania: it is about 230 km away and can be reached by car via the A19 motorway towards Palermo, then the A29 motorway towards Trapani, Terrasini exit. Alternatively, you can take the train or bus to Palermo and then continue by bus to Terrasini.
Useful tips for tourists
- Book your accommodation in advance: during the Easter period, Terrasini is very busy, so it is advisable to book accommodation well in advance to ensure comfortable and affordable accommodation
- Wear comfortable shoes: the Schietti Festival involves long walks and walking, so it is important to wear comfortable shoes to fully enjoy the festival without fatigue
- Respect tradition: the Festa degli Schietti is a religious and cultural event deeply felt by the local community. Be respectful of local traditions and customs, avoiding inappropriate or disrespectful behaviour
- Take an activepart: don’t just observe, but try to actively participate in the festival, interacting with the locals and discovering the deeper meaning of this ancient tradition. Your participation will make the experience even more engaging and memorable
- Explore the surroundings: Terrasini is surrounded by natural beauty. Take advantage of your visit to discover the Riserva Naturale Orientata Capo Rama, a paradise for trekking and birdwatching enthusiasts, and admire the suggestive Calarossa reef, with its crystal-clear waters and sea caves
- Immerse yourself in local culture: in addition to the Festa degli Schietti, Terrasini offers many other opportunities to learn about Sicilian culture and traditions. Visit the Museum of the Sicilian Cart, attend a Sicilian puppet show or participate in a tasting of local wines
- Document your experience: Take photos and videos to capture the best moments of your visit to Terrasini and the Festa degli Schietti. Share your experiences on social media and tell your friends about this extraordinary tradition
The Festa degli Schietti is much more than just a folkloric event: it is an opportunity to immerse oneself in Sicilian culture, discover its deepest roots and live an authentic and engaging experience. If you are looking for a different Easter holiday, Terrasini and its Festa degli Schietti await you with open arms!