The Feast of the candlesticks

Sardinia is a land of fascinating traditions, such as the Descent of the Candlesticks, a great feast on August 14 in honor of Our Lady of the Assumption. The religious procession crosses the historic center of Sassari and holds the whole population, between great charm and transport. This event has become a UNESCO Intangible Heritage Site, as part of the Italian Network of Great Shoulder Machines. 

The Descent comes from the vow made by Our Lady of the Assumption, who in 1652 saved the city from the plague. A vow that the Gremi – the ancient guilds of Arts and Crafts – dissolve every year: each guild is identified by a Candlestick, huge wooden candle weighing 300-400 pounds, which is carried on the shoulder and arms.