The Procession of Misteri

Every year, on Good Friday in Trapani, we experience a great emotion, the repetition of a centuries-old tradition that represents the passion and death of Christ.

The Procession of the Misteri. It is a long procession that obviously, like many events in the world, returns after a two-year stop due to the pandemic, during which 18 sculptural groups plus two simulacra parade through the main streets of Trapani's historic centre.

The Misteri were made of wood, canvas and glue between the 17th and 18th centuries by the flourishing artisans' workshops of Trapani. The procession has Spanish origins, and over the years was entrusted to the craft corporations. In 1974, the Unione Maestranze (Union of Craftsmen) was founded, which is the true organiser of this splendid repetition of a centuries-old tradition that has never lost its charm despite the passing of time.

At 2 p.m. on Good Friday, the Sacred Groups leave the baroque church of Purgatory, carefully decorated with flowers, carried on the shoulders of the characteristic 'Massari' or young volunteers, accompanied by the classic sound of funeral marches sung by the bands, and then follow a route through the main streets of the city for almost 24 hours without interruption.

All the participants in the long parade of Misteri wear uniforms or costumes.

On Saturday morning, Piazza Purgatorio fills with crowds of devotees, spectators, photographers, videomakers and tourists from all over the world who come to see the procession.