Date: Friday, April 18
Location: Chiesa del Carmine, Pietraperzia, Enna Province
Schedule:
* 2:00 PM – Life-sized crucifix placed in the church for adoration
* 6:00 PM – Assembly of the “Lu Signuri di li Fasci” religious float
* 8:00 PM – Procession through the town streets
Join the Pietraperzia community for one of Sicily’s most breathtaking and deeply rooted religious traditions, "Lu Signuri di li Fasci" (The Lord of the Bands). Dating back to the 14th century, this solemn Good Friday celebration unites faith, history, and devotion in a mesmerizing display.
Throughout the afternoon, locals and visitors will gather at Chiesa del Carmine to pay homage to a life-sized crucifix, which is traditionally adorned with small red ribbons ("Misureddi") representing prayers and blessings. Later, members of the Confraternita of Maria Santissima del Soccorso will prepare the majestic 28-foot cypress pole, securing the crucifix and the sacred white linen bands ("Fasci"), each measuring over 105 feet long, symbolizing prayers of thanksgiving for miracles received.
At 8:00 PM, an unforgettable procession begins. Over 500 believers will carry the colossal religious float, maneuvering through the narrow streets of Pietraperzia. Devotees will hold, roll, and unroll the sacred linen strips in an awe-inspiring choreography, creating the illusion of the crucifix floating over a sea of white fabric. Meanwhile, litters bearing the statues of Christ in the Sepulcher ("L'Urna con il Cristo morto") and Our Lady of Sorrows ("L’Addolorata") will solemnly accompany the main float through the town.
Many Pietraperzia emigrants abroad continue to follow the event from afar, often calling family members to listen to the whispered prayers of the bearers: “Pietà e misericordia Signuri!” (God have Mercy and Pity on us!).
The event will continue late into the night, concluding a profound and moving expression of faith that, according to local legend, is also attended by the souls of deceased brotherhood members.
All are welcome to experience this extraordinary spiritual tradition!