Caltanissetta mourns Nicola Spena, local tradition figure

Nicola Spena, a prominent figure in the local traditions of Caltanissetta, has passed away at the age of 90. Known affectionately by the community as ‘Zio Nicola’ (Uncle Nicola), he was considered a pillar of the city’s cultural and religious identity.

Spena dedicated much of his life to public service, having worked as a municipal traffic officer and later as the director of the municipal cemetery. Beyond his professional roles, he was a central figure in the preservation of the city’s Holy Week (Settimana Santa) traditions. He served as the founder and president of the Piccoli Gruppi Sacri association and was deeply involved in the management and passion surrounding local religious processions, including the Vara and Varicedde.

His passing is noted as the loss of a significant piece of Caltanissetta’s local history and a dedicated custodian of its communal memory and traditions.