Lonato Tridui Event Highlights Religious Research and Heritage

The traditional Tridui event takes place in Lonato, at the basilica of San Giovanni Battista, from February 16 to 18. The grand opening ceremony, scheduled for 8 p.m., will be presided over by don Guido Romagnoli, parish priest of Rivoltella.

The following evening will be led by don Giampaolo Tazzoli, parish priest of Manerba. The conclusion of this three-day period of prayer has been entrusted to the Bishop Emeritus of Feltre-Belluno, mons. Maffeo Ducoli.

Furthermore, the impressive “Tridui Machine” has already been set up, which will accompany and serve as the centerpiece of numerous religious functions.

Origin and history of the Lonatesi Tridui

The current rite of the Lonatesi Tridui largely dates back to 1828: some parts can be traced to the previous century, while others are new, dictated by the structure of the new machine.

According to research conducted by Professor Giuseppe Gandini, this practice was initiated as a popular initiative with the aim of suffusing the souls of those who died in war.

The starting point and main dissemination center of the practice was the church of San Giuseppe dei Franscescani Osservanti in Brescia.

Officially, the first tridui for the deceased, featuring the exposition of the Most Holy Sacrament and an artistic setup (machine), took place on January 29, 1758.

After various vicissitudes, a new setup was installed in 1928 thanks to offerings from the faithful. The ritual has remained almost unchanged since then.

The current Tridui machine is, with some modifications or retouching, the one conceived and designed in 1813 by Leonardo Manzati at the request of the “Fabbriceria” of Lonato.