Traditions and rituals of Scena: Living the year to the rhythm of the community
In every season of the year, the small municipality of Scena, above Merano, comes alive with religious rites, festivals and ancient customs that strengthen the bond between its people, faith and nature. Taking part in these traditions is a unique opportunity to immerse yourself in the authentic spirit of South Tyrol.
The start of the year: Blessings and ancient symbols
- During the first days of January, the altar boys of Scena visit local families, bringing incense and chalk. They bless the homes and write the formula “C + M + B” followed by the year on the door — an ancient Latin blessing, “Christus mansionem benedicat”, meaning “May Christ bless this house.” This custom is widespread throughout South Tyrol.
- On the evening of Epiphany, families themselves perform the ritual, using holy water and incense to protect their homes for the new year.
Winter traditions
- On 16 January, Scena hosts a historic market — once devoted to livestock trading, now a social gathering for farmers and locals.
- In mid-February, the community commemorates Andreas Hofer, the Tyrolean patriot deeply cherished by the people of South Tyrol.
Spring: faith and tradition
- Every two years in March, pupils in the first and second year of middle school receive the Sacrament of Confirmation. They set off from the village square, accompanied by their godparents and the brass band, wearing traditional costumes as they process towards the church.
- A unique custom takes place on Palm Sunday, when children bring their blessed branches to church to make small brooms, which are then sold to families — a gesture of devotion and sharing.
- The Sunday following Easter is known as “White Sunday”: it’s the day when second-grade children, dressed in traditional local clothing, receive their First Communion.
Summer: processions and pilgrimages
- During the feast of Corpus Christi, a religious procession takes place involving the entire community.
- Sacred Heart Sunday is one of the most heartfelt celebrations: a procession and bonfires lit on the mountains commemorate the vow that saved Tyrol from the French invasion.
- On 15 August (Feast of the Assumption), the inhabitants of Scena and Avelengo walk together to the Chapel of St. Oswald at Merano 2000, where they pray for good weather.
- On 20 August, the village comes alive with the summer market — the perfect occasion to experience Alpine conviviality among stalls and local products.
Autumn: a season of gratitude
- On the last Sunday of October, children go to church with baskets full of fruit to give thanks for the good harvest — an ancient ritual combining faith and gratitude towards the land.
- On All Souls’ Day, families gather in cemeteries to bless the graves with holy water — an intimate, quiet gesture that renews the bond with their loved ones.
The traditions of Scena are authentic moments that reveal the soul of a community deeply connected to its history and faith. Taking part in these celebrations — among processions, markets and traditional costumes — means experiencing the true spirit of South Tyrol, where every gesture holds meaning and every festivity becomes a shared memory.
