Home E An Island a Continent E TRADITIONS IN SARDINIA>THE HOLY WEEK IN ALGHERO>THE PROTAGONISTS 

          rites  | protagonists | calendar of events  | origins and meanings  | curiosities 

PROTAGONISTS

  • The Jermans Blancs form the Misericordia Confraternity, who are the organizers of the sacred Passion rites. Their presence in the city dates from the XVI century.
  • San Christus which is the simulacrum of Jesus is the chief protagonist in the Holy Week processions. The beautiful cross, carved out of wood, was found in the sailing ship called the “Santa Maria di Montenero”, which was wrecked at Portoconte in 1606. The drops of blood of Jesus are represented by precious rubies.
  • The Catalan Language: an ancient sounding language which is used to mutter prayers, take vows, sing hymns.
  • The Atmosphere: an ineffable atmosphere, the reflection of the candles wrapped in their red farols (red paper) that the congregation carry and the smell of the wax which spreads through the air and the hymns of the prayers that rise to the heavens combine to create an unforgettable experience.