The bonfire is constructed from roughly 70,000 to 90,000 bundles of dried vine shoots sourced from the local Salento vineyards.
The structure is built to a specific architectural design every year, often incorporating a complex internal frame to ensure a controlled burn.
The event marks one of the largest winter bonfire celebrations in the Mediterranean region.
The lighting of the Fòcara is preceded by a religious procession carrying the statue of Saint Anthony through the streets of Novoli.
The ashes from the bonfire are traditionally gathered by locals as a symbolic gesture of protection and good fortune for the upcoming agricultural year.
The Fòcara di Novoli is a colossal, temporary bonfire structure constructed annually in Novoli, Italy, in honor of Saint Anthony the Abbot. Built primarily from pressed vine shoots (sarmenti), the structure typically reaches heights of 20 to 25 meters with a diameter of approximately 20 meters. It serves as the focal point of the 'Focara Festival,' a traditional religious and cultural event held every January. The construction process involves a community effort that takes several weeks to complete before the ignition ceremony. The bonfire's lighting is accompanied by fireworks, folk music, and local gastronomy, drawing tens of thousands of visitors to the town. As of July 2026, the location remains the designated site for this recurring communal tradition.
From the raised balconies overlooking Piazza Sant'Antonio for a full-scale view of the structure.
Wear layers and clothing you do not mind getting soot on if you attend during the burning.
Prepare for significant pedestrian congestion in the town center during the festival days.
Bring ear protection as the fireworks display accompanying the lighting is extremely loud.
Do not attempt to climb the structure before the ignition, as it is structurally unstable and prohibited.
The structure is only present and ignited during the festival period in mid-January; the square is otherwise vacant for the rest of the year.
Respect the religious nature of the procession; avoid blocking the path of the statue carriers.
