Processions

The Holy Week Processions take place every year in Mendrisio along the streets of the old town centre on Maundy Thursday and Good Friday.


An unmissable and unique event, where history becomes a spectacle in the perpetuation of tradition. As they make their way through the streets of the town, a soft light is given off by the “Trasparenti”, translucent paintings on canvas mounted on “boxes” and lit up from within.”Crafted using a special technique dating back to the eighteenth century, the “Trasparenti” are a characteristic feature of the Processions and a fundamental element of the candidacy.

The Maundy Thursday Procession represents the Passion and the Stations of the Cross, featuring around 270 participants. The Good Friday Procession is more austere and solemn, with over 700 participants.


The street lighting is switched off and the streets are illuminated by the soft light of the "Trasparenti", the luminous paintings depicting episodes from the Gospel or the Old Testament.

Enjoy a tradition of over 400 years. You will take home a precious memory