Holy Week in Badajoz is a kaleidoscope of religiosity, history, meditation, art, color, aroma, luxury and austerity, all intertwined in a splendor that has led the festival to obtain the title of “Festival of National Tourist Interest” in 2011. Now, with justice, it aspires to be recognized as a “Festival of International Tourist Interest.”
The rich tradition of the Semana Mayor of Badajoz dates back to the XVI century, with evidence of brotherhoods as early as the XIV. Among the eleven current brotherhoods, some date back to the XVI and XVII centuries, while other contemporary ones are not far behind in terms of quality. The city was home to more than forty brotherhoods over the centuries, supported by the presence of numerous convents and churches. The modesty of these brotherhoods, often overlooked during the centuries of attacks on the city, is now revealed with titles such as “Pontifical” and “Royal”, which have recently been revealed.
The processional parades of Badajoz, with a centuries-old tradition, exhibit monuments and works of art that parade through the beautiful streets and squares of the old neighborhood. More than 10,000 brothers join these processions, highlighting the silent contribution of the costaleros, who, recovering the tradition, have assumed the responsibility of carrying the steps. But beyond the participation, it is the magnificent imagery that stands out, with exceptional pieces from the XVI and XVII centuries, such as the “Christ of the Thorn”, “of Peace”, “Yacente”, among others.
Holy Week in Badajoz is also notable for its monumental litters, carved in gilded wood and silver metal, coming from renowned Sevillian workshops and local artisans. The brotherhoods stand out for their embroidery and goldsmithing on banners, cloaks, canopies, among others, with nationally accredited signatures.
The festival begins on Friday of Sorrows and extends until Easter Sunday. Each day is marked by unique and emotional processions, from the Brotherhood of Jesus the Worker on Friday of Sorrows to the Brotherhood of the Risen Lord on Easter Sunday.
Each brotherhood has its own history and artistic contribution, such as the Brotherhood of the Triumphal Entry of Christ in Jerusalem, which parades under the sun on Palm Sunday, or the historic Brotherhood of the Sweet Name of Jesus and Our Father Jesus Nazareno del Amparo in the Holy Tuesday. Also notable are processions such as the Santísimo Cristo de la Paz in the early hours of Good Friday, which impresses with its sobriety and the parade of almost 1,000 penitents.
Holy Thursday is especially significant, with the departure of the Patroness, the Virgin of Solitude, accompanied by the Christ of Humility and Patience. This procession, full of devotion, is one of the highlights of Holy Week in Badajoz.
Holy Week in Badajoz is not only a religious event, but a living testimony of the rich history, exceptional art, palpable devotion and tradition rooted in the city. The declaration of “Festival of International Tourist Interest” would be well-deserved recognition for this celebration that captivates Extremadurans and attracts visitors from all over.
