Feast of the Madonna della Milicia - Altavilla Milicia

The Feast of the Madonna della Milicia in Altavilla Milicia is one of the oldest festivals in western Sicily and due to its unique characteristics the festival has been included in the Register of Intangible Heritage protected by UNESCO.
One of the most evocative moments of the patronal celebrations takes place when the majestic triumphal chariot, with the Sacred Image of the Madonna della Milicia at the top, pulled by oxen, moves through the streets of the historic center among the crowds of faithful.
The chariot , of ancient workmanship, reaches a height of 16 meters and recalls the nineteenth-century candle structure used in Palermo in honor of Santa Rosalia.
Another characteristic moment of the festival is the Conduct of the gifts during which the faithful carry waxes, torches, life-size wax body parts, little children and silver objects in procession.
During the celebrations, the flying of the angels also takes place em>, during which two little girls are suspended in the air during the passage of the painting of the Virgin.