Holy Week in Ruvo di Puglia | |
---|---|
Official name | Settimana Santa di Ruvo di Puglia |
Also called | Ruvestine Holy Week |
Observed by | Ruvo di Puglia, Italy |
Type | Christian |
Celebrations | Processions |
Begins | Friday of Passion (last Friday before Easter week) |
Ends | Easter Monday |
Frequency | Annual |
First time | 16th or 17th century |
Started by | Ancient local Confraternities |
The rites of Holy Week in Ruvo di Puglia constitute the main event held in the Apulian town. The folklore and sacred or profane traditions, typical of the Ruvestine tradition, are a great attraction for tourists from neighboring towns and the rest of Italy,[1] and have been included by IDEA among Italy's intangible heritage events.[2]
The rites begin on Passion Friday, preceding Palm Sunday, with the procession of the Desolate. Maundy Thursday is marked by the evocative night procession of the Eight Saints, while Good Friday is the turn of the mysteries. The procession of the Pieta on Holy Saturday concludes the penitential rites, while on Easter Sunday the procession of the Risen Jesus ends Holy Week.[3] All rites end on Easter Monday with the procession of the Virgin of the Annunciation in the village of Calendano.