Memoriae Festival in Volano

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The idea behind Memoriae in Volano traces back to a civic and religious vow made to Mary Help of Christians on May 15, 1915. At that time, the community feared evacuation due to the Great War—a fate that befell many neighboring villages.

The villagers united in a solemn vow, praying they would not be forced to abandon their homes. Ultimately, the Austrian command allowed Volano’s residents to stay, sparing them the tragedy of displacement. In gratitude, the community has for over a century celebrated with a Mass, Vespers, a procession through the village, the reading of the vow, and the ceremonial offering of a candle to the parish priest by the mayor, symbolizing the bond between the civic and religious communities.

Memoriae in Volano and the Festa dei Portoni

Since 2021, the Festa dei Portoni has been part of the Memoriae in Volano festival. Established in 2001, this event promotes local associations, volunteerism, gastronomy, and the region’s heritage while commemorating the dramatic events of the early 20th century.

Approximately 20 local organizations, including volunteer firefighters, Alpini, sports, and music associations, along with around 100 volunteers—many of them young people—collaborate to bring the festival to life.

2024 Program Highlights of Festa dei Portoni 

The Festa dei Portoni will take place from May 17 to 19, 2024. Throughout the year, additional events tied to the “Roots Tourism” project in Trentino-Alto Adige will be organized.

As in previous years, the festival will center on folk traditions and rural life. Highlights include artisan winemakers, products from local wineries, and VIÑA Dal Bosco from Chile, showcasing ancient techniques and their passion for winemaking.

The festival Memoriae in Volano offers a variety of experiences:

• Courtyard food tastings of traditional dishes paired with local wines.
• Activities in approximately 25 courtyards, including workshops, children’s storytelling, historical games, artisan demonstrations, itinerant artists, historical exhibitions, hobbyist stalls, and concerts by local groups like the Santa Cecilia Band and the Friendship Choir.

Year-Round Events

The Memoriae in Volano festival extends beyond May, with activities planned throughout the year:

• A photography exhibit featuring images and objects of rural life, curated by amateur photographers and wineries. Captions in local dialect will highlight the contrast between historical and modern production methods, both local and international.
• In-person and online meetings with Volano descendants and Trentino families worldwide, in collaboration with “Trentini nel mondo.”
  Special guests include Fabian Gustavo Benitez Fait (Ministerio Salud – Buenos Aires), Frédéric Spagnoli (ISTA member), and Franco Dal Bosco, a winemaker and honorary consul in La Serena, Chile.