S. Antiochus Martyr is a central figure in the religious and cultural tradition of the town of the same name and the whole of Sardinia, recognised as its Holy Patrono. His life and martyrdom, wrapped in stories of faith and perseverance, have left a deep impression on the Sardinian community.
Born around 95 A.D. in Mauritania, now part of Morocco, Antiochus trained as a doctor and used his skills to convert many pagans to Christianity. His fame as a selfless healer spread quickly, attracting the attention of Emperor Hadrian, who exiled him to the island of Sulcis, now named after him: Sant'Antioco. During his exile he continued to practise his faith, even converting his caretaker, a soldier named Ciriaco. It is said that he lived in a cave on the island, devoting himself to prayer and meditation until his deathwhich took place on 13 November 127 A.D.
His tomb became a place of pilgrimage, and the fame of his works quickly spread throughout the island. The cult of St Antiochus, which began shortly after his death, led to the construction of one of the oldest churches in Sardinia. The basilica dedicated to him, built between the end of the 5th and the beginning of the 6th century, represents one of the oldest examples of Sardinian religious architecture and rises directly above the saint's tomb, giving it a unique historical and spiritual value.
S. Antiochus is not only a religious symbol, but an icon of thecultural identity of Sardinia. The celebrations dedicated to him are moments of strong community cohesion, guardians of centuries-old traditions. Devotion to the saint, venerated not only for his martyrdom but above all for his role in the evangelisation of Sardinia, is witnessed by the continuity of the festivities, among the oldest in Europe.
Experience the magic of Feast of St. Antiochusdays full of events including culture, tradition, music, authentic flavours and the historic procession in honour of the patron saint.
The celebrations in honour of the Santo take place three times a year:
15 days after Easter - Festa Manna
667′ Manna Festival: 18 - 20 April 2026
The biggest celebrations in honour of Sardinia's patron saint
1 August Summer Festivala
1-2-3 August 2026
Summer Festival in honour of the Patron Saint of Sardinia
13 November day of the die natalis
Ricorrency of his martyrdom
Celebration with religious rites at the Baslica of St. Antiochus Martyr
A unique experience to discover the truest soul of Sardinia, in the heart of the island.
