by Adam Hejducki 
The celebration of Holy Week (Semana Santa) in Spain is one of the most spectacular and deeply rooted in religious tradition throughout the country. The festivities last from Palm Sunday (Domingo de Ramos) to Easter Sunday (Domingo de Resurrección) and are celebrated with great pomp, especially in southern Spain.
What is Semana Santa like in Spain?
Processions
The main element of the celebrations are the processions, organised by religious confraternities (cofradías or hermandades), which prepare for them throughout the year.
The processions consist of:
Paso – richly decorated platforms with figures of Jesus, Mary or scenes of the Passion.
Nazarenos – members of the confraternities in distinctive costumes with hoods (capirote), carrying candles or crosses.
Saetas – spontaneous religious songs sung from balconies, often very emotional.
Penitentes – people walking barefoot or with chains as an act of penance.
This is accompanied by orchestras playing mourning marches.
Where is the best place to see the Semana Santa processions?
1. Seville (Sevilla)
The most famous celebration in all of Spain.
Almost 60 confraternities organise processions, culminating on Good Friday and Holy Saturday.
The famous La Madrugá procession takes place on the night from Maundy Thursday to Friday.
Extremely rich “pasos”, crowds of people and a very emotional atmosphere.
2. Malaga
More spectacular than mystical.
Large figures (some weighing over four tonnes), sometimes even accompanied by soldiers.
Famous for the participation of Antonio Banderas, who attends the processions every year.
3. Granada
Processions in the beautiful setting of the Alhambra and the Sierra Nevada mountains.
Combines mysticism and aesthetics.
4. Valladolid
Known for its very quiet and serious atmosphere.
The sculptures are works of art from the 16th and 17th centuries.
Ideal for those seeking contemplation and spirituality.
5. Zamora
One of the oldest processions in Spain.
Very austere, quiet, with a medieval atmosphere.
Processions are often held at night.
Many towns have a special etiquette of behaviour during the processions – silence, appropriate dress and respect.
Processions can last up to several hours.
For many Spaniards, taking part in them is a matter of honour and a family tradition.
It is not only a religious event, but also a strong emotional and cultural experience. Whole towns are involved in the preparations, streets are decorated and residents and tourists throng to take part in the events.
We invite you to experience this wonderful celebration.
