The Weight of the Cross

The Christian Catholic faith of the people of Sicily is legendary. As the children are dressed in religious motives, adults of several guilds prepare themselves for a twenty-four-hour trial in which they are to carry the tremendous weight of floats decorated with scenes from the passion of Christ.

Long hours of shared sacrifice in the company of friends, family, and neighbours culminate in a celebration that renews the faith of the young and elder, and strengthens the ties that keep the community together.