Spugna

A spugna is an instrument of penance used by some Christians who practice mortification of the flesh.

[1] With the word "spugna" literally meaning "sponge", a spugna is made from a circular piece of cork that contains metal studs, metal spikes, or needles.

[1] Christians, especially those who are enrolled in a confraternity of penitents, strike the spugna against their chests to repent of sins and to share in the Passion of Christ.

[2] Spugna are used in the privacy of one's dwelling, as well as in public Christian processions.

[3] When in public, beaters (battenti) cover their faces with capiroti (singular capirote) in order not to draw attention to themselves as they repent, but to God; these include men, women and children.