Semana Santa en Malaga

Faith, Art, and Passion Enveloping the Andalusian Spring

2026/03/28 - 2026/04/04

Every spring, the city of Malaga in southern Spain transforms into a magnificent stage for “Semana Santa” (Holy Week). For one week, the city is filled with the scent of incense, the sound of drums and trumpets, and the flickering light of candles as enormous religious processions wind through the historic center. For those seeking art, history, and deeply moving experiences, Semana Santa in Malaga is a festival that leaves a lasting impression on both the senses and the heart.

Held every year from Palm Sunday to Easter Sunday, the festival attracts not only locals but also countless visitors from all over the world. It is a must-see event that condenses centuries-old tradition, baroque artistry, and the passionate spirit of Andalusian culture into one unforgettable week.

Main Attractions

Throne (Trono) Processions

The heart of Semana Santa is the procession of giant “tronos” (floats) carried by brotherhoods (cofradías). Some weigh over 5 tons, adorned with gold leaf, flowers, and hundreds of candles, bearing statues of Christ or the Virgin Mary through the night streets. The deep beat of drums, the mournful sound of trumpets, and the flamenco-style prayer songs called “saeta” sung from balconies fill the air. More than 250 “hombres de trono” (bearers) unite to carry each float, creating a spectacle that is both religious and grandly theatrical.

Key Events

Each day offers its own highlights. On Tuesday, the “Virgen de la Peña” procession is decorated with Malaga flowers; Wednesday features the centuries-old “Jesús El Rico” procession, where a prisoner is pardoned; Thursday is famous for the “Legionnaire Parade,” with military bands landing at the port and carrying the Christ statue. Friday is the most solemn, with mourners in black and the heaviest floats, while Sunday closes the festival with a joyful resurrection parade.

Costumes and Decorations

Participants called “nazarenos” march in long robes and pointed hoods (capirotes), some barefoot or in chains as penance. Each brotherhood has its own colors and crests. Women in black veils mourn Christ’s death, melted candle wax covers the streets, and balconies are adorned with velvet and flowers. The feel of wax underfoot, the rustle of silk, and the flickering candlelight create an enchanting atmosphere.

Traditional Food & Drink

Semana Santa is also a festival of food. Stewed chickpeas and spinach, cod croquettes or stews, honey- and anise-scented pestiños (fried pastries), torrijas (Spanish-style French toast), rice pudding, and buñuelos (fried doughnuts) fill the city with sweet aromas, mingling with incense and orange blossom in the spring air.

Cultural and Historical Background

Semana Santa in Malaga began in the late 15th century after the Catholic Monarchs conquered the city, and developed its present grandeur and artistry during the Counter-Reformation. Despite interruptions due to war and disaster, today more than 40 brotherhoods maintain their unique statues and rituals. For locals, it is a special week symbolizing faith, pride, art, and community bonds.

For residents, it is a time of emotion and prayer; for visitors, it is a chance to experience the soul of Malaga. Regardless of faith, the beauty and tradition of this festival have the power to unite everyone who witnesses it.

Participant Voices

I attended as a tourist and was overwhelmed by the scale and intensity. I spoke with one of the bearers, who told me with pride that “pain is also part of the faith,” which changed how I saw the festival.

Fun Facts

Some tronos (floats) weigh over 5 tons and are carried by more than 250 people.
During the “Jesús El Rico” procession on Wednesday, a prisoner has been pardoned every year since the 18th century.
The wax from thousands of candles makes the streets slippery, so sturdy shoes are recommended.