Spanish people are known for being religious. Special celebrations are in place during the Holy Week (Semana Santa) in Spain.
The Spanish tradition of celebrating the Semana Santa
The Semana Santa is part of Spain's cultural tradition where people gather to enjoy music, processions, and religious displays, as they reflect over the life of Jesus Christ. The elaborate celebration take its root when Marqués de Tarifa first introduced the Stations of the Cross (Via Crucis) in 1521, after he came back t Spain from his journey to the Holy Land. As the years went by, the Stations of the Cross then included different display for the Passion, such as crosses and altars that made up today's procession.
The festivities during the Semana Santa
During the Semana Santa, statues of saints are carried around on floats. But instead of the usual festive atmosphere, the Semana Santa calls for mourning and solemnity. Religious brotherhoods are the ones who carry the statues during the processions. During the procession, where you'll get to see displays of biblical scenes and religious sculptures, accompanied by penitents and musicians. The culmination of the Semana Santa, or Easter Sunday, becomes a joyous celebration filled with light and color. You can hear church bells ringing as families gather to hear a mass and celebrate the resurrection of Jesus Christ.
Tourist guide
The Holy Week is an elaborate celebration in Spain compared to other countries in Europe. The processions are held to reflect over the life of Jesus. Different cities hold processions, but some are more known for their celebrations. The Semana Santa is a special holiday that calls for reflection. Merry-making is reserved during the Easter Sunday.
