Holy Week in Puglia is a journey through the faith, tradition and culture of a land that, for centuries, celebrates the Passion of Christ with rituals and manifestations of extraordinary emotional intensity. Each city and village in Puglia offers a unique experience, allowing visitors to immerse themselves in an atmosphere full of spirituality and popular participation.
Traditions and rituals not to be missed
Procession of the Addolorata in Gallipoli: at noon on Good Friday, the black-clad confreres begin the procession with lighted candles. The parade ends in the evening with a blessing to the sea and fishing boats, symbolizing the deep connection with the seafaring tradition.
Pardons of Taranto: during the Holy Week, several fraternities organize processions with hooded men, including that of the Madonna Addolorata and the “Mysteries”. These celebrations, among the oldest in Italy, date back to at least 1703 and are organized by more than 20 local brotherhoods, some founded in the 16th century.
Procession of the Mysteries in Molfetta: the Holy Week in Molfetta is characterized by several processions, including that of the Madonna Addolorata on Good Friday afternoon and that of the Five Mysteries which leaves at 3:00 am on Good Saturday. These rites, organized by the local confraternities, represent moments of deep devotion and involve the entire community.
Procession of the Papamusci in Francavilla Fontana: in the late afternoon of Good Friday is held the procession of the Madonna Addolorata and the Dead Christ, accompanied by hundreds of “fracchie” lit, large wooden torches illuminating the path. The confreres, dressed in mourning uniforms, walk through the streets of the city in an atmosphere of deep recollection.
Le Fracchie di San Marco in Lamis: on the late afternoon of Good Friday there is the procession of the Madonna Addolorata and the Dead Christ, accompanied by hundreds of “fracchie” lit, large wooden torches that illuminate the path. The confreres, dressed in mourning uniforms, walk through the streets of the city in an atmosphere of deep recollection.
Experiences to be experienced
Visit to the Tombs: Holy Thursday is a tradition in many Puglian cities visit the churches decorated with scenographies rich in flowers and lights, creating a spiritual path that involves the entire community.
Attend the Night Processions: the processions that take place at night, such as the “Forgive” in Taranto or the “Eight Saints” in Ruvo di Puglia, offer a suggestive and engaging experience, where the silence is broken only by the rhythmic steps of the confreres and the sound of funeral marches.
Taste the Easter specialties: Holy Week is also an opportunity to taste typical dishes of the Apulian tradition, such as the “calzone” of onions in Barese, a rustic cake prepared during this period.
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