Last April Roberto and I planned a trip to southern Spain. Only later did we realize this trip would coincide with Semana Santa (Holy Week), which is a very interesting time to visit Spain. Towns host many religious events during the week leading up to Good Friday and Easter, including the famous Semana Santa processions. Small villages and large cities hold these processions featuring various Catholic symbols and scenes. Perhaps the men in long black robes and pointed hoods are the most famous symbol of penance.
We decided to forgo the large scale event in Sevilla, and instead attended processions on Good Friday in the narrow cobblestone streets of Almeria. A large crowd of Spaniards was assembled, watching in somber silence as the first robed figures began silently walking the streets barefoot.
Masked figures appeared carrying wooden crosses.
It was almost cute when one of these robed figures helped the other to re-light his sacred candle.
It was definitely cute when the local children would run up to the figures to collect wax. It made me wonder what they did with their wax balls after the procession.
Ultimately, a large ornate structure appeared, carried by at least 20 men – the body of Jesus?
Here’s a video we took during this part of the procession. I really noticed how they really involved all the senses – including the strong smell of smoke and the forlorn lone ringing bell.
Ah, I love the Catholic traditions around Easter. And, yes, I’d say that that is the body of Jesus in the catafalque. Thanks for sharing.
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You guys are lucky to have visited during Semana Santa. I was told it’s really tough to get accommodation that week in Seville. I also happened upon Semana Santa in Seville a few years ago, but I was only there for the last day of it. Thanks for sharing your photos!
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Very cool , its interesting to see how different cultures celebrate world wide celebrations in different ways. If that makes sense… haha
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Those guys actually look really creepy and sinister in their robes! I guess maybe candle lighting could have been considered cut but it scares me a little bit
Thanks for a glimpse at Holy Week in Spain. I’d love to experience this. Great photos, too.
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