Festa della Segavecchia
From 7th to 10th March 2024
Traditional feast which takes place in Cotignola every year during the third week of Lent. The festival forsees the performance of bands, folk groups, dancers, majorettes and a float parade.
The peak of the festival is the decapitation and the stake of a puppet representing the old witch. The decapitation is proceeded by the reading of the condamnation and followed by the stake.
Another ritual follows: a doll hung to some colourful ballons is launched, it contains a message and a prize for the lucky one who catches it. This ritual is a welcome of Spring and a wish to everyone for all the best.
The origins
According to the tradition, this festival dates back to the age of Francesco Sforza. The Lord had discovered a witch casting a bad spell on him, so she had been beheaded. The condemnetion was carried out right away (in the middle of Lent) in front of the applauding folk.
Programme soon available
Useful information
Town centre
Cotignola – 48033 (RA)
Tel: 347 0732962 – 0545 42182 (Pro Loco Cotignola)
E-mail: info@prolococotignola.com
How to get there
The festival takes place in the streets of the historical town centre and it is accessible to disabled. Car parks along the streets.
Price: admission free
