The exact origin of the Catenacciu procession remains unknown, but this age-old tradition has stood the test of time, bearing witness to the region’s religious fervour. Every Good Friday, in the dead of night, Sartène relives Christ’s ascent to Calvary through a poignant Way of the Cross in the narrow streets of the old town.
The anonymous penitent, dressed in an alb and a red bonnet, carries a solid wooden cross weighing 33 kg and drags a heavy chain attached to his ankle. At his side, another penitent dressed in white, representing Simon of Cyrene, helps him carry his burden. They are followed by eight black-clad penitents carrying Christ, flanked by the local brotherhood. All walk barefoot in solemn silence.
