Each parish has a brotherhood of penitential men and boys who are committed to shoulder this immensely heavy burden in procession during Holy Week.Įvery town and city throughout Spain has her own rendition. On the appropriate day during Holy Week, robed parishioners strain to lift and carry the venerated life-like images through the town on a set route that can take many hours. Many of the sculptures stretch back many generations and the pasos lie in repose in the local parishes all year long. In many towns elaborate pasos, or heavy wooden platforms, are brought out by the local parishes to recall the last few days of the life of Jesus prior to his crucifixion. And you don't need to be religious to appreciate the beauty and artistry of these celebrations - there is something profound about a town or city coming together in this way that transcends your personal beliefs. It just as much an expression of community as it is of devotion. Throughout the preceding year, both the physical and spiritual preparations involve hundreds of people in each town. Semana Santa is not a show, nor is it designed to be a tourist attraction.

Semana Santa expresses the heart and soul of Spain. Enjoy this classic article, written by La Tienda founder Don Harris, about this magical event as we hope for a return to normal in 2022! This year the striking ceremonies and processions of Semana Santa (Holy Week) will be restricted as Spain works to contain COVID-19. Stories About Spain Semana Santa, The Soul of Spain Written by: Donald B.

Semana santa 2021