Every year on the 14th of August, 11 guilds of men in traditional costumes shoulder massive wooden candlesticks and march (or rather, synchronize their steps – it’s more of a dance) down the streets of Sassari to thank the Virgin Mary for her protection from the plague that threatened the city in the 1600s. The candles are tall and heavy, the drum beats loud and rhythmic, and the sun overbearing and hot. The crowd gathers, not the least of which with their sons and daughters, neighbors and friends, to watch the dance of the candles and remember what makes Sassari so unique. Because whether these men are actually thinking about the Virgin Mary and her protective powers or about the flowing beer and upcoming party, one thing is without a doubt: they are proud, and understandably so. (click to see more photos)