Corpus Domini (Latin for “body of Christ”) is a celebration in the Roman Catholic Church. In English, we call it Corpus Christi (no, it’s not just a city in Texas). The festivities take place 60 days past Easter (but if the date doesn’t land on a Sunday it’s celebrated on the following Sunday). Corpus Domini/Christi celebrates the body and blood of Jesus Christ through the Eucharist (a.k.a. Holy Communion). In Italy, the celebration is today. 

There’s a beautiful Corpus Domini tradition in Monterosso (the fifth and largest village of the Cinque Terre). Locals create elaborate designs with flowers, petals, leaves, seeds, salt and sawdust on streets throughout the historical center. Be sure to check it out if you’re in the Cinque Terre today! As for tonight, there’s a religious procession that heads down the main street of Riomaggiore (the first village from the city of La Spezia) with the ultimate destination being the water’s edge in the marina. 

Enjoy! 

Amy