The unique traditions found around the globe are what make visiting or residing in different places unique. Many of these customs stem from religious observances, with Easter being a particularly significant period for Christian countries. Spain, maintaining its strong Catholic heritage, celebrates Easter with devotion, passion, and spectacle.
While Easter is a time for celebration, it can also be a surprisingly moving and solemn occasion, and it is well worth seeing at least one or two of the processions that take place in Marbella for the opportunity to immerse yourself in local traditions and culture.
Alternatively, head out of town to enjoy local scenery, or make the most of the temperate weather and enjoy time in the Spring sun on the beach. Read on for our suggestions as to what to do in Marbella during Easter.
Holy Week (Semana Santa) in Marbella
Holy Week in Marbella is a vibrant and deeply spiritual celebration, marked by a series of processions from Palm Sunday to Easter Sunday, each with its unique character and significance. The week begins with the procession of La Pollinica on Palm Sunday, featuring around 300 penitents from the Hermandad de Nuestro Padre Jesús Cautivo. Easter Monday sees the procession of Cristo de la Columna, with 325 Nazarenos in white and green. The following days are filled with solemn marches, including El Cautivo y Santa Marta on Tuesday and Cristo del Perdón y el Nazareno on Wednesday, each procession followed by penitents in traditional attire.
The climax of Holy Week is observed from Thursday to Good Friday with the silent, respectful march of over 600 brothers in the Nazarene procession. Easter Sunday contrasts with a joyful procession, celebrating the resurrection.
Central to these observances are the iconic images of Virgins, Christ, and crucifixions, carried on astonishingly intricate and beautifully adorned floats, surrounded by the scent of incense and the glow of candlelight. Nazarenos, in their distinctive robes and capirotes (conical pointed hats), and women in traditional Mantillas, add to the solemnity.
The week is also a feast for the senses with the singing of La Saeta, a poignant religious song, and the enjoyment of traditional sweets like torrijas and pestiños. Both are sweet treats, torrijas a version of French toast, infused with milk and honey then fried, and pestiños, dough that is deep fried, drenched in honey and sprinkled with cinnamon sugar.
Alternative Easter
Aside from the religious processions and ceremonies, Easter in Marbella is one of the best times for sightseeing and adventuring into the surrounding towns and villages. With sunny days and moderate temperatures, the lush Andalucian countryside beckons, perfect for day trips out to the charming White Villages that dot the countryside, or for the more adventurous, take on the challenge of climbing La Concha before the summer’s heat arrives.
One of the great treats of the Costa del Sol is its proximity to Sierra Nevada and the ability to be on the pistes of Europe’s most southerly ski resort within two hours after leaving the coast’s beaches.
Or simply stay on the beach and enjoy the sunshine, partake of a leisurely lunch of fresh locally-caught fish in a chiringuito for lunch or the water sports that are available in abundance, although the sea may still be somewhat chilly after the winter.
Marbella has so much to offer at Easter, it’s impossible to list everything. If you’re looking to make this beautiful part of Spain your permanent home or to spend more holidays here in your own property, get in touch with our helpful team who will be delighted to aid in your search for your perfect property.