‘A juta a Montevergine

sounds from the Madonna di Montevergine x Turbo Sud, Radio alHara

A sonic journey of the Juta of Montevergine through field recordings taken in 2023 and 2024.

The Juta is an important popular tradition in Campania, consisting of an annual pilgrimage to the Sanctuary of Montevergine, located on Mount Partenio. The word “juta” comes from Neapolitan and means “ascent” or “going up,” emphasising the spiritual and physical journey to this sacred site. This pilgrimage has very ancient roots, blending elements of Christian religiosity with popular traditions linked to pagan rites.

photo 1: Enrico Di Cerbo

The central figure of the ritual is the Madonna of Montevergine, also known as “Mamma Schiavona,” a black Madonna who, according to popular lore, was marginalised due to the colour of her skin, leading her to seek refuge at the top of the mountain. Revered as the Madonna of the oppressed, she has become a symbol of spiritual refuge and welcome. Montevergine is also historically regarded as the Madonna of the “femminielli”—the Neapolitan and Campanian LGBTQ+ community.

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