Processions of the Holy Week in Mendrisio

The Holy Week Processions of Mendrisio, a UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage.

Holy Week in Mendrisio is marked by a unique and deeply moving event: the processions of Maundy Thursday and Good Friday, which commemorate the passion and death of Jesus Christ. This ancient tradition, first documented in the 17th century, likely has even older roots.

At dusk on Maundy Thursday, the historical centre becomes a stage for the Funziun di Giudée, a grand open-air performance involving over 200 participants and 40 horse riders. As ceremonial trumpets sound, the procession moves through the streets: Jesus crowned with thorns, the Virgin Mary, Mary Magdalene, Saint Veronica with the sudarium, the condemned thieves, Roman soldiers, and other biblical figures reenact Christ’s final journey. The costumes are rich in detail and due to their historical value, the event is cancelled in case of rain. The role of Jesus is kept secret until the last moment — a tradition linked to a local legend of redemption.

In preparation for the processions, the town is adorned with the magnificent "Trasparenti": large paintings on translucent fabric, illuminated from behind by lanterns. Depicting scenes from the Passion, these artworks — some dating back to the 17th and 18th centuries — are still created today by local artists following centuries-old techniques.

The Good Friday procession, also known as Enterro, is more solemn and contemplative. It was established by the monastic order of the Servi di Maria and involves around 700 participants, including confraternities and religious groups. The heart of the procession features the baroque figures of the Dead Christ and the Sorrowful Virgin, carried in silence through the streets of Mendrisio. The soft evening light and the glow of the "Trasparenti" create a haunting and sacred atmosphere.

An enchanting blend of popular devotion, mysticism, theatre, and art, the Holy Week processions engage the entire community and attract many visitors every year. A living tradition that renews itself annually, bringing the old town to life with a unique and timeless spirit.

On 12 December 2019, UNESCO inscribed the Holy Week processions of Mendrisio on the Representative List of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity.