Decollati
Part of The Encyclopedia of Southern Italy.
Decollati: A Sicilian cult which venerates the spirits of executed criminals. Those so-honored had been asked forgiveness for their crimes and had been reconciled with the Church prior to their executions. They are evoked to intercede on behalf of those in danger of accidents while journeying by land or by sea. They are also called upon as a protection against murder and violence. Interestingly, they also protect against haemoptysis, a condition of coughing up bloody discharge. The principal center for this cult is a plain-looking chapel of the Decollati at Palermo, where it was reputed that these spirits gathered together beneath a particular stone. Those requesting their help approached the stone to say their prayers which are said to be answered verbally. A number of other shrines to the Decollati are found in other parts of Sicily. It is not necessary, however, to go to one of their shrines to ask for their help.