Representation of the
Passion of Christ
A centuries-old tradition that since 1790 transforms the ancient village of Francavilla di Sicilia into a natural theatre.
The Sacred Representation of the Passion of Christ in Francavilla di Sicilia has a centuries-old history, with roots going back to 1790.
It was 1790 when Father Silvestro organised the Way of the Cross with living characters, all roles played by children.
Later, Father Gaetano Calabrese in 1865 involved hundreds of faithful, giving life to the “Sacred Representation of Good Friday” as it has been handed down to us.
This event, held only periodically, involved over 500 participants, all strictly in period costumes.
The various scenes of the Passion of Christ, from the Entry of Palms to the Crucifixion, processed on foot or on floats along the village streets.
The late 19th and early 20th century editions were promoted and directed by Cav. Carmelo Orsina. In 1985, Mayor Salvatore Puglisi strongly wanted to revive this ancient tradition.
We had to wait until 2014, when thanks to the passion and dedication of volunteers, the event was revived with a renewed format.
Despite difficulties related to reduced human, economic and logistical resources, it was possible to transform the event while keeping its essence intact over time.
The ancient village of Francavilla di Sicilia has thus become a natural theatre hosting the scenes of the Passion: no longer static and silent but dynamic and acted, turning participants into true “actors”.
This is the format in which the Sacred Representation has been staged in 2015, 2017, 2019, 2023, 2024. From 2017 it was moved to Palm Sunday, and in 2023 the Association “a Passioni” was founded.
