| |
| | The Dancing Procession of Echternach |
 | | It was only during the 14th century, when epidemics of plague were devastating Europe, that it was transformed into a procession of prayers against the great calamities of the Middle Ages: St. Vitus's dance, the plague, epilepsy, and the corrupt practice of flagellation. |
 | | In this case, the pilgrims used to stop at the sound of a bell, and then moved forward a few steps, before falling down on their knees, and starting the gestures all over again. |
 | | Individuals wishing to take part in the procession are advised to check the setup plan (published in Luxembourg newspapers a couple of days beforehand), as the Church issues strict guidelines for pilgrims in order to avoid that this religious occasion turns into something of a folk festival. |
| www.luxembourg.co.uk /dancproc.html (789 words) |
|