Within the world of the Verges Procession, one group uniquely embodies the agitation, noise, and fury of the sacred drama: The Jews of the Verges Procession. While other characters maintain absolute solemnity, they fill the streets with life, torchlight, and movement throughout the night of Maundy Thursday.
Who Are The Jews of the Verges Procession?
Although technically known as saions in scripts and academic circles, everyone in Verges simply calls them The Jews. This group represents the crowd that taunts Jesus and the executioners carrying out the orders of the Sanhedrin.
Their role is vital to the procession’s rhythm. They guard the condemned, make him fall, and constantly interact with the audience through their shouts and running. Without their presence, the Passion Play would lose much of its emotional power.
The Image of The Jews: Torches, Chains, and Tunics
The attire of the Jews of Verges is unmistakable and helps create the town’s mystical atmosphere. Unlike the rigid armor of the Manages, The Jews are characterized by:
- Tunics and Headwear: Garments with colours and textures that evoke the era. They are often accompanied by capes that add flair to their movements.
- The Torches: This is their most iconic element. The fire from the resin torches illuminating the stone walls is one of the most powerful images of the night.
- Instruments of Punishment: Many carry chains that they drag along the ground. The use of clubs and maces also creates a chilling, dry, metallic sound.
The “Street Verses”: The Voice of Tradition
One of the features that makes The Jews of Verges unique is the recitation of “street verses” (versos de carrer). During the route, some members of the group stop before Jesus to recite poignant phrases.
These are short verses, inherited from oral tradition, used to mock the character of Christ. These fleeting dialogues in the middle of the street are when the audience feels the power of popular theatre most intensely.
The ‘Sardana de Salts’: The Most Intense Moment
Finally, the moment everyone waits for is the ‘sardana de salts’ (jumping sardana). At strategic points along the route, The Jews join hands and begin to jump energetically around Jesus.
Although it may seem chaotic, this dance symbolizes the mob’s mockery. It is this contrast with the martial pace of the Manages that makes the Verges Procession unique in the world.
Last updated: April 25, 2026
