The penitential procession has been organised by the Sodaliteit van de Gekruisigde Zaligmaker since 1646. The procession takes place every year, on the last Sunday in July - this year, Penitential Procession will be on Sunday 29 July 2023, starting at 15:30 from Sint-Walburga church.
The procession is an expression of popular religion and tradition. Actors bring Old and New Testament scenes to life in an ancient Dutch evocation. Penitents, barefoot and dressed in a habit made from rough cloth, pull ancient sculpture groups that depict the Passion of Christ. Other penitents carry a cross as a sign of faith and penitence. The Boetprocessie has retained its sober and authentic folk character throughout the centuries. For this reason, the Vlaamse Gemeenschap (Flemish Community) has given the Boetprocessie in Veurne a place on the valuable Flemish Cultural Heritage list.
Watch the Boetprocessie video here:
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