Happy Holy Weekend, the holiest time on the Christian calendar.
Last year this time, I told myself I'd be in Antigua, Guatemala, home of the largest Easter celebration in the world, on this day. (Instead, I'm working.)
In Antigua, Semana Santa Holy Week processions start on Palm Sunday, with floats carrying images of Jesus and the Holy Virgin of Sorrows through town.
Men in purple robes carry floats down the cobblestone streets with sculptures of Jesus on their shoulders, walking in step with somber tones from the band. Anywhere from 50 to 100 people are required to support the float, which can weigh up to 7,000 pounds.
Similar processions follow until Good Friday, when the city is dressed in black. Saturday's processions are dedicated to the Virgin Mary of Sorrow, when women wear their finest.
The town marks Easter Sunday with a festival, fireworks, and family meals, celebrating the resurrection of Christ.
How do you mark the week?
Some of the most beautiful aspects of Holy Week are the alfombras placed in the streets between processions.
0 comments:
Post a Comment