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Bloody handprints of penitents called battenti, or beaters
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Bloody handprints of penitents called battenti, or beaters
The bloody handprints of penitents called battenti, or beaters, are seen on a wall during a procession through the streets in the town of Verbicaro, southern Italy April 18, 2014. The bleeding penitents walk in groups of three through the streets and stop in front of all the churches and chapels in the town. The tradition began in the thirteenth century and serves as penitence for Christs death.
REUTERS/Alessandro Bianchi (ITALY - Tags: RELIGION SOCIETY TPX IMAGES OF THE DAY)
Reuters photo archive features some of the most dramatic and iconic moments ever captured
Media ID 19905610
Architecture Blood Building Christian Clothing Close Up Detailed Evening Faith Group Hold Human Italian Kywd Kywd Nk Light Lighting Night Pavement Penitent Procession Religion Religious Ceremony Religious Clothes Semana Santa Shadow Stand Street Traditional Wall Worship Worshipper Handprint Top Pictures Unrecognisable
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EDITORS COMMENTS
This print captures the hauntingly beautiful tradition of the battenti, or beaters, in Verbicaro, southern Italy. The image showcases a wall adorned with bloody handprints left by penitents during a solemn procession through the town's streets on April 18,2014. In this deeply religious ceremony dating back to the thirteenth century, groups of three bleeding penitents walk together as an act of penance for Christ's death. They stop in front of every church and chapel along their path, offering prayers and reflections. The photograph highlights the intricate details of each handprint against the backdrop of an evening sky. The play between light and shadow adds an atmospheric touch to this powerful scene. The unrecognizable figures holding staff canes stand as symbols of faith and devotion. The architectural elements surrounding the wall provide a striking contrast to the bloodstained imprints. This juxtaposition emphasizes both human vulnerability and resilience in matters of religion. A sense of reverence permeates this image as it encapsulates centuries-old traditions that continue to be upheld today. It serves as a visual testament to the enduring power of faith and its ability to unite communities in acts of worship. Photographer Alessandro Bianchi skillfully captures this momentous occasion with his creative use of lighting and composition. Through his lens, viewers are transported into a world where spirituality intertwines with history, leaving an indelible mark on all who witness it.
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