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Za Krizen Procession



During Easter on the Dalmatian island of Hvar in southern Croatia, each village sends a group to the streets of that village. These villagers walk twenty-five kilometers in a circle, carrying a cross, and return home in eight hours. Cross-bearers were formerly chosen by religious brotherhoods but are today selected by registration up to twenty years in advance. Due to their devotion and the devotion of their families, cross-bearers have both a desirable and respected position. Usually, the cross-bearer is barefoot or in socks, and starts at 10 p.m., but they are not the only ones to participate. Additionally, there are Feralistas, a town-member group, who bring candles or oil lamps to light the path. Another group of pilgrims will also be present at the beginning and end of the walk, who carry candles and sing songs as they move.

Upon entering another town, each procession group will stop to pay respects at churches and chapels. Each group walks clockwise, and it is extremely bad luck to cross paths with another procession group. Two things make the parade particularly magical: the red and gold lights from the lanterns and candles that progress through the darkness of the night and the singing. During the procession, the men in the Cross-Bearer's entourage sing penitential hymns, while the women in the rearguard sing prayers such as the 'Hail Mary'. In every parish church, the ancient harmony known as 'Our Lady's Lament' ('Gospin plač') is sung after the congregation has prayed and sung the hymns.

The origins of this penitential walk are not known for sure. There are various theories about how and why it began. Historical evidence suggests it began about five hundred years ago, and there are various theories about how and why the ritual was established. The penitential walk is directly linked to the appearance of the miniature bloody cross in Hvar Town in 1510, which marked the beginning of the People’s Uprising. This uprising occurred three months after this event and lasted for four long years. A further theory for the origin of the processions has been proposed, when the settlements in the central part of the island broke away from the Hvar Cathedral Chapter. Still, another theory holds that the inspiration for the processions is found in the spiritual awareness and reverence the Medieval Hvar islanders have for Christ's torment, death, and resurrection.

This procession is deeply embedded in the heart and soul of the people of Hvar, whether near or far. It connects the island's communities to each other and to the global Catholic community. The procession has been part of the island's religious and cultural identity for many generations. This special night stirs in them the deepest emotions, bringing back memories and, more importantly, connecting their footsteps to those of their forebears, strengthening their spiritual faith and restoring their faith in a more promising future.

References

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