Ntinna a Mari 2024

On August 6, 2024, thousands gathered on the scorching shores of Cefalù, Sicily, for one of the most ancient manifestations still celebrated in the region: the “‘Ntinna a Mari ri Cefalù.” Standing waist-deep in the Mediterranean with my Fujifilm X-E4 and Fujinon 16-80mm f4.0 lens, I documented this centuries-old tradition as participants from Cefalù’s oldest fishing families competed to capture the flag of the Most Holy Christ Pantocrator.

The Challenge of the Greased Beam

The task is deceptively simple yet profoundly difficult. Seventeen boys or men must navigate a 16-meter wooden beam, heavily coated with animal fat and suspended over the sea, to reach the sacred flag at its end Cefalu. The heat was relentless that day, and the multitude surrounding me created an electric atmosphere of encouragement, laughter, and anticipation as each competitor attempted their run across the slippery antenna.

A Tradition Born from Faith

According to local tradition, this celebration dates back to 1783 as a sign of devotion to the SS. Salvatore for sparing Cefalù from a devastating earthquake, though some sources suggest even earlier origins. What remains certain is the deep connection between the people of Cefalù and this spectacular display of faith, athleticism, and community spirit.

Shooting with Minimal Gear in Maximum Chaos

Working with minimal equipment, just my compact Fujifilm X-E4 and versatile zoom lens, I focused on capturing the raw emotion of the event: the little girl’s wonder amid the chaos, the intensity of the crowd, and the courage of those who dared the greased beam. The portability of the X-E4 proved essential as I navigated through the dense crowds and challenging shooting positions in the water. This approach aligns with my broader photography work, where I prioritize authentic storytelling over technical excess.

Recognition and Reflection

On January 26, 2025, I was honored with a Special Mention from the Jury for my photograph, “À picciridda, à fudda, a ‘Ntinna” (The little girl, the crowd, the Antenna) at the 2nd Photo Contest ‘Ntinna a Mari ri Cefalù 2024. This recognition validates not just the technical execution, but the story I sought to tell: one of tradition, community, and the enduring spirit of Sicily’s coastal heritage.

Project Vitals

Specialty: Documentary Photography, Street Photography
Location: Cefalù, Sicily, Italy
Date: August 6, 2024
Camera: Fujifilm X-E4
Lens: Fujinon 16-80mm f4.0
Award: Special Mention, 2nd Photo Contest ‘Ntinna a Mari ri Cefalù 2024 to Felipe Iglesias
Recognition Date: January 26, 2025