Saint Roch feast celebrated with traditions across Europe and Brazil

Communities across Europe and South America are observing the feast of Saint Roch, a 14th-century pilgrim and healer traditionally venerated as a protector against plagues and infectious diseases. The celebrations, centered around his liturgical feast on August 16, involve a wide array of religious and cultural traditions.

In Italy, festivities include solemn processions, masses, and local customs such as the “Fiore” ceremony in Jenne and the “U Ddirroccu” ritual in Calabria. Various towns, from Tortona to Scilla and Conversano, host events ranging from musical performances and markets to traditional horse parades and maritime processions.

In Croatia, the town of Draškovec maintains a tradition dating back to 1760 with a pilgrimage mass and local fairs. In Brazil, the figure of São Roque remains a significant religious icon. Historically, Saint Roch is remembered for his devotion to the sick during the Black Death, famously aided by a dog that brought him bread during his isolation in the woods.