Over Easter 2025 I visited Sicily with Mark Seymour to attend the Procession of the Mysteries in Trapani. One of the longest processions in Italy, the Procession of the Mysteries attracts thousands of believers, devotees and tourists every year, who are intrigued and enticed by this fiery display of religious fervour that has been repeated, unchanged and emotional, for over 400 years.  Originally called Las Casazas and believed to have been introduced from Spain in the 16th century, it has been performed every year since then, with few discontinuities throughout history. The 18 sculptural groups and two simulacra, mounted on special wooden ‘vare’ as supports, parade through the city's streets. The statues were made of wood, glue and cloth, between the 17th and 18th centuries, by Trapani artisans' workshops. They represent characters and scenes from the passion and death of Christ. Initially there were only six, but over time this number grew to 18. The oldest is the Ascent to Calvary. It is believed that the procession has its roots in the period of Spanish domination of the island and was initially organised by a confraternity. As time went by, it was then entrusted to craftsmen and guilds who still organise the event today.