Holy Week in Badajoz unfolds as a spectacular tapestry of spirituality, history, artistic expressions, vibrant colors and austerity, obtaining the prestigious title of “Festival of National Tourist Interest” in 2011.
The rich tradition of the Semana Mayor of Badajoz dates back to the 16th century, with more than forty brotherhoods that have paraded through its streets over the years. Today, eleven of these brotherhoods, each with its own narrative, display monuments and works of art in the charming corners of the old town. This artistic display is possible thanks to the silent work of the costaleros, who assume the responsibility of carrying the processional steps. The beginning of the festivity is marked on Friday of Sorrows and culminates on Easter Sunday, with unique and moving processions each day, with Holy Thursday being the most notable with the departure of the Patroness, the Virgin of Soledad.
Holy Week in Badajoz not only represents a religious event, but also a living testimony of the rich history, exceptional art, palpable devotion and deep-rooted traditions that define the city’s identity.
In the historical background of San Andrés, a new Brotherhood emerges with splendor: the Brotherhood of the Descent. Its genesis dates back to Holy Week in 1943, when a group of friends gathered at a coffee gathering, beginning an initiative that would eventually become a moving expression of faith.
Don Luis Martín Illescas, one of the “fathers” of the Brotherhood, excitedly shares how the idea took shape in collaboration with the then parish priest, Don Leopoldo Sito. The detailed chronicle of the creative process and the choice of theme is found in an article in the newspaper Hoy of April 6, 1944.
Initially, the idea of representing the image of a Risen Lord or the possibility of a step for the Palms procession was considered, but neither option fit. Finally, it was decided that the Descent would be the central mystery, since no other brotherhood represented it. In May 1944, Don Luis Martín and Don Antonio Flores traveled to Seville to commission the images from the renowned image maker Don Antonio Castillo Lastrucci.
The sculptor, recognized as one of the great masters of the time, brought the mystery to life with his genius, adjusting to the initial sketch. The step, initially composed of four images, was exhibited in Seville, where it received praise and attracted the interest of the prestigious Sevillian Brotherhood of Quinta Angustia.
On March 21, 1944, the pass reached Badajoz, moving the community with its grandeur and beauty. The formal authorization of the Brotherhood was granted by the Bishop of the diocese, Don José María Alcaraz y Alenda, on March 28, 1944, consolidating its official status.
It is relevant to note that, although the Brotherhood of the Descent was founded in 1943, the representation of the mystery already had centuries of tradition in Badajoz through the Brotherhood of the Holy Burial. The latter had been staging the ceremony of the Descent from the Cross every Good Friday, still preserving an articulated crucifixion that adds a historical touch to the new Brotherhood.
