U Catenacciu di Sartè

The exact origin of the U 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.

Two days before the procession, the penitent retires to the convent of Saint-Côme-et-Damien to meditate in a sober cell, alone with the Bible. Only the priest knows his identity.

On the evening of Good Friday, at 9.30pm, the doors of St Mary’s Church open onto Piazza Porta. In front of him, a dense, contemplative crowd lets the cross-bearer pass, as he begins his ordeal over a two-kilometre route, which is both demanding and spiritually charged.

At the end of the procession, the penitents gather on the raised forecourt of the parish church. In deep silence, the crowd listens to the sermon by the Father Preacher, bringing this uniquely intense ceremony to a close.

Attending the U Catenacciu procession is an unforgettable experience, a moment of meditation and tradition where faith, emotion and heritage come together. Join us every Good Friday in Sartène to experience one of Corsica’s greatest spiritual events.

Holy Week in Sartène

• Sunday 29 March: Palm Sunday Procession and Mass of the Passion of Christ
• Thursday 2 April at 9.30pm: Sartenais Procession
• Friday 3 April at 9.30pm: Catenacciu Procession
• Saturday 4 April: Easter Vigil
• Sunday 5 April: Easter Mass