Living Via Crucis of Scauri

The Sacred Performance of Scauri

The Living Via Crucis of Scauri is one of the most deeply felt religious traditions on the island of Pantelleria, in the Province of Trapani. Held in Scauri, a seaside district of the municipality of Pantelleria overlooking the island's southwestern coast, it retraces the final hours of Jesus Christ's life—from his condemnation to his crucifixion—through a moving live performance.

An Open-Air Stage

During the sacred performance, the main streets of the district transform into a grand natural stage. The procession winds through the village, drawing spectators along a series of stations that culminate in the Golgotha scene, traditionally staged in Piazza Grande. Roman soldiers, pious women, disciples, and local community actors accompany the procession, delivering the drama of the Passion with powerful emotional impact.

A Community-Led Event

The event is the result of the hard work of volunteers from the APS Crescere Insieme association and the San Gaetano Parish, with the patronage of the Municipality of Pantelleria. After more than a month of rehearsals, about twenty performers bring the various characters to life: association president Marco Ruggeri has played Pontius Pilate in every edition, while the role of Jesus is portrayed by Giovanni Brignone. Popular participation is always high, with a crowd of faithful and visitors following the entire performance with great emotion.

A Rediscovered Tradition

The Living Via Crucis of Scauri boasts a well-established history, with about ten editions behind it. After a hiatus due to the health emergency, the tradition was resumed with great enthusiasm, returning to be one of the main community gathering moments in the district during the Lenten and Easter period.

Faith and Island Identity

More than just a religious event, the Via Crucis of Scauri represents a key piece of Pantelleria's cultural identity. It is an occasion where the small community of the district gathers around its parish, blending popular devotion with the desire to pass down a heritage of gestures, symbols, and collective memory typical of Sicily.