What is “a relic procession”?

The story behind the answer

In medieval Europe, clergy and townspeople would carry saints’ bones, garments, or other holy objects in ornate reliquaries through city streets so everyone could see and venerate them. These solemn lines, with hymns, incense, and banners, were believed to extend the relics’ protective and healing power over the community—invoking relief from droughts, plagues, or sieges and blessing fields and homes.

Such events often marked feast days, rogation processions, or emergencies, and they showcased civic pride as guilds and confraternities took part. Towns that possessed famous relics drew pilgrims and revenue, and miracle stories multiplied along the route. Unlike indoor expositions, funerals, or theatrical plays, these processions intentionally brought sacred presence into the public square.