Semana Santa

This year, I have the opportunity to take pictures of the processions of the Semana Santa in Malaga, Spain. I tried to read the most possible information before the shooting so I figured I was prepared. It is a very touching and astonishing experience to see graceful, proud men carrying 2-3 ton thrones.

The Holy Week (Semana Santa) is the last week of the Lent from Palm Sunday to Easter Sunday. The Semana Santa is a tradition stemming from the time of the inquisition when church congregations, religious brotherhoods organize processions. The Holy Week in Malaga is one of the most special ones in Spain. During the penitent processions, several ton sculptures depicting the main events of the life of Virgin Mary and Jesus are carried out from their hosting churches. The weight one person carries could be up to 100 kilograms. The most significant participants of the procession are the penitents and the servants (penitentes, servidoras) dressed in capelins, mantles and robes. At the front of the procession advances a wind and percussion band playing grievous religious music and marches. The streets are filled with elegantly dressed spectators.