Procession of the Jews

An ancient rite in the heart of Valmarecchia

In the medieval village of Pennabilli, in the Alta Valmarecchia region of Rimini, one of Emilia-Romagna's most evocative rites is renewed every Good Friday: the Procession of the Jews. Its origins are lost in the mists of time, possibly dating back to the 13th century, when some citizens of Pennabilli, united in the Confraternity of Our Lady of Mercy, founded a hospital with an oratory in the town. Since then, the re-enactment of Christ's Passion has been passed down from generation to generation, becoming a deep part of the community's identity.

A recognized historical event

Since 2018, the Procession of the Jews has been listed among the Historical Events of the Emilia-Romagna Region, a recognition that seals its cultural and identity value. It is not a show for tourists, but a living rite in which the entire Municipality of Pennabilli participates: each hamlet has its role, from recruiting participants to caring for the costumes, from torchlight processions to songs to Our Lady, to the recitation of the Passion.

The "Jews" and the costumes of Piero della Francesca

The name of the procession derives from the Roman soldiers, popularly called "Jews", who are its protagonists. Their costumes are of particular importance because they are inspired by the Roman guards depicted in Piero della Francesca's famous pictorial cycle, The Legend of the True Cross. Alongside them, about seventy participants in period dress parade: Christ carrying the cross, Simon of Cyrene, the holy women, and hooded figures. The men of the confraternities are tasked with carrying on their shoulders a very rare polychrome papier-mâché sculpture dated 1631, depicting the Madonna and the dead Christ.

A path through torches and songs

The procession crosses the historic center from Penna to Billi, illuminated by torches, colored paper lanterns, and braziers, in an atmosphere of great solemnity. Prayers and medieval songs echo along the procession, including the Stabat Mater sung by the women, an authentic treasure in the memory of the inhabitants. The heights of the Rupe, near the monastery of the Augustinian Sisters, represent Golgotha in a highly evocative natural setting where the final re-enactment of Jesus' Passion and death takes place.

An experience to be lived

Every year, thousands of people come to Pennabilli to witness this rite that blends faith, history, and popular theatre. The Procession of the Jews is a unique opportunity to discover one of the most fascinating villages in the Rimini hinterland and to immerse yourself in a centuries-old tradition that is still fully alive.