The Procession of the Varette of Good Friday is a deeply felt event in Barcellona Pozzo di Gotto, a tradition that resonates with the community's spirit. On Friday, April 18, 2025, the streets will once again echo with the sounds of faith, as groups have been preparing the varetta for weeks, embodying the essence of this sacred occasion.
The Visilla, a modulated song that captures the heart and soul of the procession, will be sung as the symbols and phases of the Passion of Christ pass by. This year, the processions will commence from the Duomo of Santa Maria Assunta in Pozzo di Gotto and will converge in front of the Church of San Giovanni Battista. The two processions will meet at dusk on the Torrente Longano, marking a significant bond between the Barcellona and Pozzo di Gotto communities.
This event is not merely a display of tradition; it represents a deep mix of faith, devotion, and cultural heritage that has been renewed over the years. The Barcelgottese soul, as it is known, embodies a collective memory that transcends generations. The participants will carry with them a sense of nostalgia, recalling those who have come before them, and honoring their memories with tears and joy.
As the procession unfolds, the powerful Visilla will resonate through the streets, sung with unmatched passion. It is a moment when the community comes together, united in their faith and shared history, celebrating a tradition that has become an integral part of their identity.
In Barletta, the Procession of Good Friday is another significant event that captures the essence of faith and community. This procession, one of the oldest expressions of spirituality in the region, is deeply rooted in the historical context of the city. The event is a collective moment of intense emotion, reminding participants of their Catholic roots.
The origins of this procession date back to a vow made by the City of Barletta in 1656, during a devastating plague that claimed thousands of lives. In a desperate plea for divine intervention, the citizens promised to hold a procession if the plague ceased. Remarkably, the disease abated on the night between Holy Thursday and Good Friday, coinciding with a heavy snowfall, which the townsfolk interpreted as a sign of divine mercy.
On May 4, 2022, a copy of this historic vow was presented to Pope Francis, underscoring the continuing significance of this event. The formalization of the vow took place on July 29, 1656, when the city committed to building a trophy of divine mercy—a silver urn to be carried in procession each Good Friday.
Over the centuries, the procession has evolved, with changes instituted by Ferdinando IV in 1769, which moved the event from night to afternoon for safety reasons. Yet, the essence of the procession remains unchanged, serving as a powerful testimony to the faith of the Barlettani.
The procession is not just a religious observance; it is a cultural phenomenon that brings together people from various walks of life. It is a moment where the sacred intersects with the secular, allowing for a unique blend of spirituality and community participation. The emotional weight of the event is palpable, as participants reflect on the pain and suffering that the Virgin Mary endured, a pain that resonates with many families today.
As the procession progresses, the itinerary includes stops at various churches, each holding its own significance and history. The sacred route will begin at the Basilica Concattedrale and include stops at churches like Sant'Adoeno, Santa Caterina, and San Vincenzo de Paoli, among others. The final return to the Basilica Concattedrale marks the culmination of a journey steeped in faith and tradition.
In Civitavecchia, another poignant procession will take place on the same day, where 170 penitents will participate barefoot, adorned with chains and crosses. The Procession of the Dead Christ will commence from the Stella church at 8:30 PM, continuing a centuries-old tradition that highlights the solemnity of Good Friday.
The Arciconfraternita del Gonfalone is responsible for organizing this significant event, ensuring that every detail is meticulously planned. The procession will wind through the city's streets, including Piazza Leandra and Corso Marconi, before returning to the Stella church. The route is designed to evoke a sense of reverence and reflection, as participants and spectators alike engage with the solemnity of the occasion.
The processions across these towns are not merely events; they are a testament to the enduring power of faith and community. Each procession serves as a reminder of the shared history and the deep emotional ties that bind the participants together. As they walk in unison, they embody the spirit of devotion that has been passed down through generations.
In conclusion, the Good Friday processions in Barcellona Pozzo di Gotto, Barletta, and Civitavecchia represent a rich tapestry of faith, history, and community spirit. They evoke deep emotions, connecting the past with the present, and reminding individuals of their shared beliefs and traditions. As these communities come together to honor their heritage, they reaffirm their commitment to faith and to each other, ensuring that these timeless traditions continue to thrive for generations to come.
