The Easter processions held on Maundy Thursday and Good Friday, in Mendrisio are widely recognized as one of Switzerlands traditions and hold a special place as a UNESCO cultural heritage site. These emotional ceremonies occur within a setting offering spectators a profound understanding of the story of Christs Passion.
Easter processions in Mendrisio – UNESCO cultural heritage
The Easter processions in Mendrisio have been a tradition since the century. When the processions kick off the towns street lights dim and the soft glow of the “Transparente” illuminates the streets. These beautiful illuminated scenes, some dating back to the century depict moments from the Gospel.
On Maundy Thursday the procession reenacts Christs journey to Golgotha while on Good Friday they portray the burial of Jesus Christ. The locals in Mendrisio observe these Easter processions with reverence and spiritual fervor drawing crowds of visitors from around the globe each year.
Beyond their significance these Easter processions are a testament to the traditions and cultural heritage of Mendrisio. The striking “banners” create an atmosphere of devotion among spectators. Offer an opportunity to witness biblical history firsthand. Thus the Easter processions, in Mendrisio not hold importance but also provide an enchanting cultural experience that transports viewers to another time.
Procession on Maundy Thursday
Every Maundy Thursday evening, in Mendrisio, a captivating event unfolds as numerous amateur actors come together to reenact the Passion of Christ through a series of scenes. The procession features the presence of characters such as the Virgin Mary, Mary Magdalene, the Veronica displaying the shroud the condemned thieves, Roman soldiers and Jewish followers tracing Jesus arduous journey through town amidst suffering.
The role of portraying Jesus Christ is determined by chance each year with the chosen individual granted the opportunity to embody this role once in their lifetime. The identity of this actor remains shrouded in secrecy until the commencement of the procession. Adorned in invaluable costumes sourced from La Scalas collection in Milan all participants contribute to creating a unique ambiance for the procession that underscores its significance.
In consideration of the significance and worth of these costumes and props processions are called off in case of rain, for safety precautions. Preserving their beauty and authenticity necessitates care and protection for these costumes.
Procession on Good Friday
The Good Friday procession, in Mendrisio is known for its liturgical essence, which may have existed for a considerable period possibly predating the Maundy Thursday procession. It was originally introduced by the order known as the “Servants of Mary.”
The grand Good Friday procession, also known as “Enterro ” unites members from brotherhoods and church groups. Together they solemnly carry baroque sculptures representing the Christ and the sorrowful Virgin Mary through the charming streets of the town. These exquisite sculptures grace the altar of San Giovanni church throughout the year.
Participating in the Good Friday procession holds importance for believers. The reverent procession with the sculptures symbolizes sorrow and empathy, for Christs suffering and Marys grief. The event creates an atmosphere of devotion and respect allowing worshippers to fully engage with their faith.
The Good Friday procession is an important event in the religious calendar of Mendrisio and attracts believers and visitors from all over the region every year. The dedication and commitment of the members of the brotherhoods and associations that make this traditional procession possible reflect the community’s deep attachment to its religious practice. The procession is therefore not only an expression of spiritual devotion, but also a testimony to the living tradition and culture of Ticino.
Video Processioni storiche di Mendrisio 2017
“Death! To the cross!” shouted the villagers of Mendrisio in southern Ticino on Maundy Thursday. They took part in the historic Easter procession in 200 different roles. The story performed in the alleyways of the old town tells the tale of suffering and the condemnation of Jesus Christ to death on the cross. Another procession takes place on Good Friday.
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Video Mendrisio’s Passion of the Christ
For more than 200 years, the people of Mendrisio in the Italian speaking part of Switzerland have been re-enacting Christ’s path to Calvary in a spectacular procession through the town’s medieval streets. The identity of the man who will play Christ is kept secret from the rest of the performers until the end of the procession.
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Video Processioni storiche di Mendrisio
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