MATERA HA DATO IL VIA ALLA 637ESIMA EDIZIONE DELLA FESTA DELLA BRUNA

(Thanks to TRM for their contribution to the images) Let the great celebrations begin: the celebrations for the 637th edition of the Festa della Bruna have officially kicked off in Matera. The event had a prologue in Rome, in the prestigious Hall of the 100 Days of the Vatican Chancellery. With the ceremony at the "Gerardo Guerrieri" Cinema Theater, the official kickoff in the city of the Sassi itself: a month of events combining devotion, culture, and entertainment, leading up to the climax on July 2nd. The President of the Maria SS. della Bruna Association, Bruno Caiella: "Today we present to the entire citizenry the program and objectives of the 2026 edition, and the guidelines that will lead us to achieve our new goals." For the Vice President of the Basilicata Regional Council, Pasquale Pepe, the event is "our utmost attention as a region. We are here after having also been in Rome because we want to demonstrate our support with our presence and with concrete political decisions, for this symbol of identity and tradition." The Archbishop of Matera-Irsina and Bishop of Tricarico, Monsignor Benoni Ambarus: "We are trying to pay special attention to the most disadvantaged, because that's how I'm used to thinking: when we celebrate, everyone should have a reason to celebrate, and even those who don't have a reason to celebrate should be included to help them lift their spirits." The Mayor of Matera, Antonio Nicoletti: "As mayor, the celebration is even more alive, because it can be felt even in the offices, preparing everything necessary for its success in the best possible way. It's a work that brings together various institutions active in the area, with the focus on enhancing the celebration without distorting it. This is the key, which is also the key to Matera's tourism." On the subject of tourism, APT Director Margherita Sarli: "The festival is first and foremost about identity and community. If these are as powerful as in the case of the Bruna Festival, they become messages to be spread abroad, they can only be messages of local valorization." This year's program stands out for its innovation, cross-fertilization, and faith, along with technological innovation, without losing its connection to its roots. Representing the institutions and organizing bodies, the following will participate: https://www.basilicatadigitalchannel.com