15° Corteo Storico di San Nicola di Rutigliano

**History in the Streets of Rutigliano**

Reenactment of the Beginning of the Patronage of Saint Nicholas on the 719th Anniversary (May 13, 1306 - May 13, 2025)

The **Historical Parade of Saint Nicholas** returns on **Saturday, May 10**, in **Rutigliano**, at **8 PM**, now in its 15th edition: it is the reenactment of the beginning of the **Patronage of Saint Nicholas** over **Rutigliano**, celebrating the **719th Anniversary** (May 13, 1306 - May 13, 2025).

Through the streets of the city, **150 participants** in medieval costumes will parade to remember the donation of the fief of Rutigliano to the Chapter of Saint Nicholas of Bari by **Charles II of Anjou**, formalized on **May 13, 1306**, the date that marks the beginning of Saint Nicholas's patronage over Rutigliano.

The **Historical Parade** will start from **Piazza Colamussi**, in the **Old Town**; after passing through the main streets, it will conclude in **Piazza XX Settembre** with an announcement read by a noblewoman from 14th century Rutigliano, played by actress **Clara Misceo**, who will communicate the king’s decision to the city.

Next, **Ursone**, the archpriest of Rutigliano in 1306, portrayed by **Francesco Calò**, will extol the virtues of Saint Nicholas and declare him the patron saint of the city.

Following will be a show by the **Drummers**, **Musicians**, and **Flag Bearers**.

The following groups will parade:

**“The Figurants of Saint Nicholas”** from Bari, the historical group **“Melphicta in the Past”** from Molfetta; the **Flag Bearers and Musicians “Civitas Mariae”** from Capurso; the **Free University of the Third Age "Lia Damato"** from Rutigliano.

A canvas by artist **Grazia Dibattista** will be part of the Historical Parade: an image of Saint Nicholas casting his protective gaze over a glimpse of medieval Rutigliano.

The **Historical Parade of Saint Nicholas**, conceived and directed by journalist and historian **Gianni Capotorto**, is promoted by the Committee “Festivals of the Crucifix and Saint Nicholas,” in collaboration with the Collegiate Church of Santa Maria della Colonna and San Nicola of Rutigliano, and with the sponsorship of the Municipality of Rutigliano and the Pontifical Basilica of Saint Nicholas in Bari.
Web: www.facebook.com/crocifisso...