Through a blend of ancient traditions, religious ceremonies and community involvement, Holy Week in Puglia becomes a true celebration of faith and culture.
Palm Sunday
Holy Week begins with Palm Sunday, a moment of joy and acclaim commemorating Jesus' triumphal entry into Jerusalem. Throughout the region, churches and local communities prepare to bless palms and olive branches, symbols of peace and victory.
Processions
One of the most striking aspects of Holy Week in Puglia is the series of sacred processions that wind through the streets of cities and towns.
- In Gallipoli, the procession of the "incappucciati" (hooded) stands out for its touching and solemn nature. Participants, their faces covered with long white hoods, carry statues depicting significant moments of the Passion through the city streets.
- In Taranto, the Procession of the Mysteries provides an opportunity to contemplate sacred statues depicting crucial episodes of Jesus' life.
- In Barletta, the Good Friday procession is characterized by the solemn procession of the Dead Christ. The tradition of the "knockers," unique in its kind, sees participants striking the doors of houses forcefully to announce the Passion of Christ.
Tomb displays and blessing of the food
During Holy Week, churches set up tombs, symbolic representations of Jesus' Holy Sepulchre, adorned with flowers and lights. Additionally, the tradition of blessing food, held on Holy Saturday, sees families bringing food baskets to the church to be blessed by the priest in preparation for Easter.
Culinary traditions
Holy Week in Puglia also offers an opportunity to enjoy the delights of local cuisine associated with this time of year. Among these are "scarcelle," small sweets shaped like crowns or baskets, made primarily with almond paste, sugar, and flavors. Another traditional delicacy is almond paste lamb. Furthermore, "sagne 'ncannulate," a fresh pasta shaped like a cannolo filled with ricotta, is a symbolic dish often consumed during this period.
Alezio 
