The Procession of the Dead Christ, in Chieti, takes place on Good Friday and is one of the most moving and heartfelt celebrations throughout Italy: through the streets of the city moves the hooded procession of the ancient Confraternities, amid the splendor of 19th-century wooden statues and the stirring Miserere raised by one hundred male voices and violins.
The Procession of the Dead Christ is an integral part of the popular feeling of Chieti, so much so that not even the threat of German troops during World War II could stop it: it is a ritual born in the year 842, deeply rooted in the most genuine Abruzzese traditions, still maintained by the Archconfraternity of the Sacred Mount of the Dead.
At the first signs of dusk, the city—illuminated by candles lit by thousands of faithful and by tripods placed in the streets—prepares to see parade the wooden statues symbolizing the Passion of Jesus and the depiction of the most important moments of the Way of the Cross.
These works of art, dating back to 1855, depict the angel, the purse, the lances, the rooster, the ladder, the pincers, and of course the Cross.
On the edges of the streets, from the balconies overlooking the route, hang silk drapes, precious blankets, and fine fabrics spread in a sign of devotion.
Meanwhile, the procession swells with faithful and participants, hooded figures wearing the dress corresponding to each Confraternity.
The strongest and most important focal point is obviously the passage of the Dead Christ, barely covered by a precious white veil, laid on a coffin wrapped in black velvet embroidered with gold. This fascinating work of art, a highlight of the Procession of the Dead Christ, is carried on the shoulders of members of the Archconfraternity of the Good Death.
Right behind comes the statue of the Sorrowful Virgin continuing along the Holy route, while the notes of the Miserere by Saverio Selecchy can be heard in the background.
The Procession of the Dead Christ in Chieti is a popular, artistic, religious event; an occasion to experience feelings of devotion with traditions rooted over centuries.
