The broadsword mass has its roots in the first half of the 14th century. The Patriarch of Aquileia Bertrando di San Genesio, after conquering Cormons, was forced to celebrate the Christmas night mass of 1340 outdoors, in Gorizia, wearing his war armour and imparting blessings with a two-handed broadsword.
This particular liturgy has remained the practice of the Church in Gorizia for centuries in the celebrations of Holy Christmas. Having lost the Isonzo tradition, today the mass is currently solemnly celebrated on Christmas night in the Patriarchal Basilica of Aquileia. Free access.
