Holy Week in Agnone

The heart of the Easter traditions of Alto Molise

The Holy Week in Agnone, in the province of Isernia, is one of the most cherished events in the Molise religious calendar. For several days, the historic centre of the village becomes the stage for ancient rites, processions, and sacred performances involving parishes, confraternities, and the entire community.

The Sepulchres and the Congregation of the Dead

From Maundy Thursday, the bells are tied and the Sepulchres are opened in the village churches. Among the most evocative is the one in the church of Santa Croce, a temple that opens only for this occasion and is guarded by members of the Congregation of the Dead.

The Good Friday Procession

On Good Friday, at 6:00 PM, the procession departs from the monumental church of San Francesco and winds through the main streets of the town before returning. The confreres, in black habits and hoods, carry the statues of the Dead Christ and the Virgin of Sorrows on their shoulders.

The Living Passion of Christ

On Holy Saturday, the Living Passion of Christ is staged, performed by the young people of Agnone: over fifty characters bring the play to life—conceived by Fabio Verdone and directed by Verdone himself and Paolo Porrone—which is performed on the parvis of the church of Sant'Emidio and on the steps of Largo Sabelli, where the Crucifixion takes place, accompanied by choirs and songs.