Syracuse embraces the treasures of Saint Lucia: the robe and the shoes in procession for the first time

A historic appointment for the devotion to Saint Lucia: on Friday, the relics of Saint Lucia will be the protagonists of a solemn transfer to the Church of Saint Lucia alla Badia. The event, desired by the Deputazione della Cappella, marks an unprecedented moment: for the first time, the robe, shoes, and veil of the Syracusan martyr will be carried in procession.

The liturgical program will begin in the Catedral with a moment of reflection dedicated to the recitation of the rosary and the Stations of the Cross. Subsequently, at 6:30 PM, the Archbishop of Syracuse, Monsignor Francesco Lomanto, will lead the processional parade that will accompany the relics to the Badia, where they will be placed in a niche specifically prepared in the central nave.

This year's procession is enriched by an element of strong symbolic value: the return of the carriage of Saint Lucia. As explained by Sebastiano Ricupero, president of the Deputazione, it is a historical artifact commissioned in Monza by Monsignor Giacomo Carabelli (Archbishop from 1921 to 1932). Previously used for transporting the statue before the tradition of the Berretti Verdi on shoulders took over, the carriage has been recovered and restored to finally traverse the streets of the city once again.

The sacred will intertwine with art and culture on the days of March 13, 14, and 15. At the Parlatoio di Santa Lucia alla Badia, three videos dedicated to the Saint, filmed in the most picturesque locations of Syracuse, will be screened. The project, promoted by the Municipality in collaboration with the Accademia delle Musae, features musical arrangements by Mariuccia Cirinnà and Gianluigi Di Gregorio.

To complete the religious program, on March 14 at 4:00 PM, the Church of Saint Lucia alla Badia will host a spiritual meeting dedicated to the devotees, a moment of reflection set within the context of Lent to solemnly celebrate the presence of the relics.