Friday, April 22, 2011

Semana Santa in Sevilla: Holy Week

Photo by Certo Xornal
Holy Week is just about finishing up in Spain with major festivities taking place currently and over the next couple days. Here is one of your typical shots from one of the festivities that take place in the Sevilla as well as other parts of the country. 

As an American first seeing such a scene, my initial unknowing thought was, why are the clan having a rally in Spain. I am sure I am not the first to have this thought cross my mind when seeing the Nazernos in their robes and pointed hoods (capirotes). You will see these robes and hoods in various colors. 

Originally self flagellation would take place during the processions in penance for their sins and the priests or monks beat themselves bloody on their backs with whips. This still takes place in many countries. However in many cases they would be beating bare skin rather than robe during the Passion of Christ Procession and in other instances. 

Semana Santa and the resulting festivals that ensue are beyond the scope of a quick blog entry, but I thought this is an interesting topic to touch on. May you and your family have a great Good Friday and Easter Sunday, no matter what  your religious beliefs are. After all, I don't remember reading about Yellow rabbits laying multi-colored hard boiled eggs and hiding them for children to find and eat. This cultural phenomenon certainly will require much more research. 

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