Longone Sabino. Feast of Saints Cosmas and Damian and rite of "Foconi"

Of particular curiosity is a ritual of foconi - bonfires still celebrated in the town on September 26, during the patronal feast of Saints Cosmas and Damian in Longone Sabino.

When the sun sets, all the lights are turned off and a procession begins from the church dedicated to the two saints and through the streets of the village. The procession is lit only by candles.

At the same time, on a hill in front of the village, large bundles of dried brooms are lit up, and these are called "Foconi".

This ritual may be connected to ancient Sabine rites, symbolizing probably the desire to keep the just ended summer light.