One of the iconic elements of the feast of Sant’Agata–and lighter ones too–is the Minna di Sant’Agata (or Minna di Sant’Aita in Sicilian), or Saint Agatha’s Breast, a pastry that you’ll find this time of year made and eaten in honor of the saint. I ate this sweet ricotta-filled pastry covered with layers of marzipan and sugar, pictured, in January when I was in Catania. The breast-shaped pastry represents Agatha, who is the patron saint of martyrs, bakers, earthquakes, wet nurses, and breast cancer patients.

The feast for the virgin martyr is one of the most intense you’ll find in the Christian world. I’ve written about it extensively on ExperienceSicily.com. Use the SEARCH in the footer of the site and enter “Agata.” You’ll find detailed descriptions of how Cantanesi celebrate their patroness from February 3-5 each year.

Viva Sant’Agata!