September 2025 - Viggiano, Italy
Translatio
The traslazione (transfer) of the Black Madonna of Viggiano is a centuries-old ritual that takes place twice a year, marking a significant moment for the community. The photos you have captured document the solemn procession on the first Sunday of September, when the statue is carried down from its sanctuary on the Monte del Sacro to the town below, where it remains until its return journey on the first Sunday of May.
The event is a powerful expression of collective devotion. Hundreds of people gather to accompany the statue, which is carried on the shoulders of dedicated bearers, along a winding path. The procession is an act of pilgrimage that connects the people to their shared religious and cultural heritage. The tradition has long served as a vital anchor for the community, uniting locals and migrants who return from around the world to participate.
