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Holy week in Spain is known as ‘Semana Santa’  and this week has seen traditional processions take to the streets all over the country. Seville hosts the most spectacular of these religious events in Spain, with the cathedral at the core of all activities (which is the third largest cathedral in the world)

These are some pictures from the processions last year  to share.

This event  features processions of enormous gilded  ‘pasos‘ that are carried on the heads and shoulders of brotherhood members.

These  floats depict scenes of the events from the passion or statues of the Virgin Mary, crying tears of blood in her grief.

 

Some of the sculptures are very elaborate and are considered artistic masterpieces, as well as being culturally and spiritually important.

 

 

The processions are organized by  religious brotherhoods. During the processions, members march ahead of  the pasos dressed in penitential robes and hoods – that look similar to those worn by the Klu Klux Clan!

They are often accompanied by brass bands – or just  drums. The atmosphere is extraordinary!

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Other marchers dress  in an array of uniforms, such as Roman Centurions

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Some of these processions are totally silent – an eerie spectacle!

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

The  route start  from their home churches and travel  to the Cathedral through the city streets, some of which are furnished with stands and seating for spectators. Some of the processions from the suburban areas can take up to 14 hours to return to their home churches.

With a family member living in the city, we were fortunate to view this amazing sight last year.