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Overview
The “Sword Mass” (Messa dello Spadone) is one of the most unique and evocative liturgical ceremonies preserved by the Church, though its exact origins and meaning remain partly unknown. Its name comes from the sword of Patriarch Marquard of Randeck, which during the liturgy is wielded by the Deacon to salute and bless the clergy and the faithful with solemn gestures. The most widely accepted interpretation links the rite to both a religious and political significance: it was performed during the Patriarch’s installation, when he held not only spiritual authority but also temporal power over the vast Patriarchate of Aquileia.
Program:
10:30 a.m. – Solemn “Sword Mass” at the Basilica of Santa Maria Assunta (Cathedral)
11:45 a.m. – Historical reenactment of the entrance of Patriarch Marquard von Randeck into Cividale in 1366
33043 Cividale del Friuli UD, Italia
