Holy Week Processions
Holy Week, leading up to Easter Sunday, witnesses solemn and elaborate processions across Italy. These processions, such as ‘La Processione del Venerdì Santo’ (The Procession of Good Friday), reenact the Passion of Christ. From the stirring processions in Enna, Sicily, to the ornate ceremonies in Rome, these events draw devout locals and tourists seeking to witness the spectacle of faith.
Scoppio del Carro (Explosion of the Cart)
Florence hosts the renowned ‘Scoppio del Carro’ tradition on Easter Sunday. A cart laden with fireworks parades through the city to the Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore. The ignition of the fireworks during Mass symbolizes a good harvest and is believed to bring blessings for the year ahead.
Palm Sunday Palms (Palme)
Intricately woven palm leaves, blessed in churches, are carried in Palm Sunday processions across Italy. These ‘Palme’ symbolize Jesus’ entry into Jerusalem and are often crafted with intricate designs, showcasing the country’s artisanal craftsmanship.
Easter Culinary Delights
Easter in Italy is synonymous with culinary indulgence. ‘La Colomba di Pasqua,’ a dove-shaped cake symbolizing peace and resurrection, graces tables alongside ‘La Torta Pasqualina,’ a savory Easter pie from Liguria. Indulging in these traditional delicacies is a quintessential part of the Easter celebration.
Uova di Pasqua (Easter Eggs)
Eggs hold a prominent place in Italian Easter traditions, symbolizing fertility and new life. ‘Uova di Pasqua,’ intricately decorated eggs made from chocolate or sugar, are exchanged as gifts among family and friends.
Good Friday Traditions
On ‘Il Venerdì Santo’ or Good Friday, Italians traditionally abstain from meat, opting for fish-based meals. This day is marked by solemn church services and a sense of reflection and fasting.
