Feast of the Immaculate Conception

The Feast of the Immaculate Conception in Bastia

The Feast of the Immaculate Conception is one of the most deeply rooted religious celebrations in Bastia, Haute-Corse. It is held annually on December 8th, the day of the Feast of the Immaculate Conception. It is organized by the Brotherhood of the Immaculate Conception, founded in 1588, one of the oldest brotherhoods in the city.

A unique Corsican tradition

Corsica is the only region in France where the Immaculate Conception is celebrated on December 8th. This singularity dates back to 1735: the Corsican insurgents, gathered in a consulta, then placed their young nation under the protection of the Immaculate Conception, from which the anthem « Dio Vi Salvi Regina » originated. December 8th thus takes on both a spiritual and an identity dimension in Bastia.

Day's program

The celebration traditionally takes place at the Oratory of the Immaculate Conception (A Cuncezziò, rue Napoléon) and at the San Ghjuvà church. The day combines several masses — including a mass in the Corsican language — and a procession during which the faithful carry the statue of the Virgin through the streets of the Terra Vechja district. The solemnity dedicated to the Immaculate Conception gathers the brotherhood at the end of the day before the procession.

A heritage event

Beyond its religious dimension, this festival highlights Bastia's baroque heritage, particularly the brotherhood's oratory, a jewel of Corsican religious art. It contributes to the city's cultural and tourist life in the heart of winter.