Feast of the Vara

The vara is a popular feast that takes place on August 15 in the central streets of the city of Messina. The wagon represents the assumption into heaven of the Virgin Mary. The float of the vara is 13.5 meters high and weighs eight tons and is dragged by ropes by the faithful who for the occasion are dressed in white overalls and blue belts. At the top of the float there is a representation of Jesus holding up the Madonna on one hand, under a series of angels wearing colorful clothes.