The Calvary Church in Savoca, although deconsecrated several years ago, remains a very special place. Located on the top of one of the hills of the village, it is the last station of the Stations of the Cross that takes place in Savoca every year. It is also one of the best vantage points from which to admire the view, although it is not easy to reach.
History of the Calvary Church in Savoca
The small church of Calvary is located on the top of one of the hills of Savoca. Already before the year 1000 there was a hermitage in this place, inhabited by Basilian monks from the nearby Abbey of Saints Peter and Paul of Agrò. In the 18th century, however, the building was completely abandoned and entrusted to the Jesuits. The Jesuits were responsible for the restoration of the church, which they dedicated to Our Lady of the Seven Sorrows and the Holy Cross. In 1948, restoration work was carried out, but it distorted the original appearance of the church. The only remaining element is an old stone arch.
Calvary and the Way of the Cross in Savoca
Every year on Good Friday, the rite of the Way of the Cross is celebrated in Savoca. This tradition has very ancient origins and dates back to the 15th century, when the 14 Stations of the Cross were carved into the rock. In 1735 the Jesuit Fathers were responsible for their restoration, while more recently they have been replaced by terracotta panels. The route has been the same for centuries, starting from the Capuchin Convent and ending at the Calvary in Savoca. The procession of the faithful is led by the “incappucciati”, members of the Brotherhood of Santa Lucia. During the procession, old traditional songs are sung, accompanied by the sound of the “troccola”. This is a musical instrument used in various parts of southern Italy, made of a wooden board with metal handles.
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