Spoiler alert: it’s the same every year and has been for decades, also in Madrid, Malaga, Sevilla and so on.
The processional routes and timings are always the same - to the degree that in bigger cities the platforms (tronos) on which statues and effigies are carried are made so as to ‘just’ be able to fit the narrow streets and corners of their specific traditional route.
Semana Santa in Spain really is to be experienced.
I believe the processions aren't as impressive in the north as they are in the south. Also in the north they are more solemn whereas in the south they have more of a fiesta vibe.
I'm sure they're still impressive in Santiago.
I was surprised to hear an effigy of Judas Iscariot is burned on holy Saturday in some traditions.
In Ireland, the most we have is religious sermons (including lighting the pascal candle from a fire), followed by the secular tradition of easter eggs on Sunday.
I was in Bolivia at Easter time previously and classes of school children did most of the processions through the streets.
I saw a procession in Salamanca today of Our Lady of sorrows with the 7 swords piercing her heart. Carried by about 20 people. I'll be here for palm sunday but not sure where I'll spend Easter.
Semana Santa.
Part of a bygone age. Still very much alive in Spain, and I imagine, other European countries. The colour, the mystery, the drama... the call to former beliefs. I was seriously involved in Semana Santa in Bilbao 24 years ago. Totally absorbing. Connecting back centuries...
So different from my Scottish background. We (sic) don't do Mediterranean display, we're cold and Northern.
I loved the pageantry, and still do,when I see it. The capilote, recently explained by @SabsP, gives me the jitters.
There is really nothing new under the sun, but the point here is this: for current pilgrims: catch what you can. If it makes you ask questions, look for the answers. And make the most of it.
Our present realities have little time for pageantry!
I just liked the idea of introducing (sic).
I haven't done a live feed on this last section of my camino from home in Ireland which I started back in 2021 - but quire excited to reach SdeC tomorrow on 6th June!
Today Ivar posted general info re challenges in securing beds in Santiago de Compostela. He mentioned Ed Sheeran coming sometime, but was not sure when.
I just found the info:
I love his music...
Profile maps of all 34 stages of the Camino Frances
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