La Corsa dei Ceri, also known as the "Race of the Candles," is a centuries-old tradition that takes place in Gubbio, a town in the Umbria region of Italy. This event is held annually on May 15th, the eve of the feast day of Saint Ubaldo, the patron saint of Gubbio.
The festival is a lively and colorful celebration that commemorates the life of Saint Ubaldo, who was a bishop in Gubbio during the 12th century. The highlight of the festival is the race, where three teams, each representing one of Gubbio's patron saints – Saint Ubaldo, Saint George, and Saint Anthony – compete in a thrilling race through the streets of the town.
Each team carries a large wooden structure, called a "cero" or "candle," which is topped with a statue of their respective saint. The ceri are incredibly heavy, weighing several hundred kilograms, and are carried by teams of men known as "ceraioli." The goal of the race is to carry the ceri uphill to the Basilica of Saint Ubaldo, located atop Mount Ingino, as quickly as possible.
The race is preceded by various religious ceremonies and festivities, including processions, Masses, and music performances. The entire town comes together to participate in and witness the spectacle, which is steeped in history, tradition, and fervent devotion to Saint Ubaldo.
La Corsa dei Ceri is not only a significant religious event but also a symbol of community pride and identity for the people of Gubbio, attracting visitors from all over Italy and beyond to witness the excitement and spectacle of this unique tradition.
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