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Catenacciu Sartene SlIn Corsica, religious tradition plays an essential role, and Sartène is one of its strongest symbols with the famous Good Friday procession: U Catenacciu. This ceremony, deeply rooted in the island’s culture, is the most impressive and well-attended on the island.
The exact origin of the U Catenacciu procession remains unknown, but this age-old tradition has stood the test of time, testifying to the region’s religious fervor. Every Good Friday, in the dead of night, Sartène relives Christ’s ascent to Calvary with a poignant Way of the Cross through the narrow streets of the old town.
The anonymous penitent, dressed in an alb and red hood, carries a 33kg solid wooden cross and drags a heavy chain attached to his ankle. At his side, another penitent dressed in white, embodying Simon of Cyrene, helps him carry his burden. They are followed by eight black-clad penitents carrying Christ, framed by the local brotherhood. All walk barefoot in solemn silence.
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Catenacciu Sartene 2018 38bd 1024x683 1Two 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 the church of St. Mary open onto Piazza Porta. In front of him, a dense, contemplative crowd lets the cross-bearer pass, as he begins his two-kilometer ordeal, an arduous yet spiritual journey.
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 delivered 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
Procession Du Catenacciu Dans Les Ruelles De Sartene
La Chute Du Catenacciu Sous La Croix Sartene
Catenacciu Place Porta A Sartene
Propriano Good Friday Way of the CrossÉGLISE NOTRE DAME DE LA MISERICORDE
ÉGLISE SAINT SAUVEUR
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