I Sampauluna – Easter Sunday

The Sanpaoloni , also called Sampauluna in the  dialect of San Cataldo, are imposing papier-mâché processional giants depicting the eleven apostles (excluding Judas). These majestic statues are carried in procession during Easter Sunday , as part of a traditional encounter between the Risen Jesus , the Madonna and the Magdalene .

Origins

The origins of the Sanpaoloni date back to the 1700s , although similar events featuring people representing the apostles had already been taking place for centuries. The initial purpose of the celebrations, organized by the Mercedarian Fathers , was primarily popular catechesis . The name "Sanpaoloni" derives from Saint Paul and symbolizes the spiritual and moral greatness of the apostles.

The Processional Giants

The Sanpaoloni are statues of about three meters , made  of an iron structure, and dressed in sumptuous Spanish-style tunics. The heads and arms are attached to the torso, while the bearers, hidden inside the statues, are visible only through their eyes and legs. Each statue bears a plaque with the name of the apostle it represents.

The Procession of the Encounter

The encounter between the Risen Jesus and the Madonna takes place on the afternoon of Easter Sunday along Via Vittorio Emanuele , between the Church of Santa Maria delle Grazie and the Chapel of the Resurrected Christ . Mary Magdalene , carried on the shoulders of young people, discovers the missing body of Christ and runs to inform the Madonna and the Sanpaoloni. Along the way, the Madonna and the Sanpaoloni, accompanied by Mary Magdalene , finally meet the Risen Christ, who appears from a side street. The final procession concludes with the encounter between Saint Thomas and the Resurrection of Christ, accompanied by the town band.

Valorization and Conservation

The Sanpaoloni had recently been restored by the cultural association Giuseppe Amico Medico , which also manages their conservation and promotion. The association safeguards the statues and continues to promote the tradition of the processional giants.

Tradition and Culture

The Sanpaoloni are an important cultural tradition of San Cataldo and represent one of the most significant events of the Holy Week . Although the event has simplified over time, with the procession now taking place mainly on the morning and afternoon of Easter Sunday , the Sanpaoloni continue to be a symbol of devotion and identity for the local community.

5 APRIL – 6.00 pm
U 'NCUNTRU DI LI SAMPAULUNA
With the Risen Jesus, the Madonna and the Magdalene.
floral tribute from the Municipal Administration to the Chapel of “Lu Signuri Scitatu”.

SOLEMN PROCESSION OF THE RISEN JESUS
​​With the Madonna, the Magdalene, and the Sanpaoloni up to the Sanctuary of Santa Maria Delle Grazie.