Holy Week in Guatemala: the history of the processions

Holy Week in Guatemala is a one-of-a-kind religious celebration that offers tourists an unforgettable experience of Guatemalan culture and devotion. It recently received official recognition as an intangible heritage of humanity by Unesco, thanks to its extraordinary richness and cultural diversity.

Every year, during Holy Week, the streets of cities and towns across the country are filled with religious processions, music and colorful dyed sawdust carpets. This is, in fact, one of the most deeply rooted traditions in Guatemalan culture.

Credits: Procession in Antigua Guatemala

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The history of the processions

The history of the processions in Guatemala goes back to the time of the Spanish colonization, when the conquerors brought their religion and traditions with them, as a process of evangelization. The first documented procession in Guatemala occurred in 1524, in the city of Santiago de los Caballeros de Guatemala (now known as Antigua Guatemala).

The procession was held to celebrate the feast of Corpus Christi and was organized by the Franciscans. Since then, religious processions have become an integral part of the religious and cultural life of the country. During the colonial era, these were carried out in the squares of the cities and towns, and were accompanied by music and dances.

Credits: Sawdust mat in Antigua Guatemala

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The incorporation of sawdust mats

After Guatemalan independence in 1821, the processions became more elaborate and began to include religious images, brotherhoods, and dyed sawdust carpets. The latter are an integral part of the celebrations of the time and are believed to have originated in Antigua Guatemala during the 17th century.

The carpets are created by the faithful in the streets where the processions pass, they are a way of showing respect and devotion. They are considered a true ephemeral work of art. On the other hand, the Holy Week processions in Guatemala are also known for their impressive wood carvings. These represent the passion and death of Jesus.

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They are carried on a litter by the faithful and are decorated with flowers and fabrics. They are highly revered by Guatemalans for their spiritual power. Although this tradition is carried out throughout the country, the colonial city of Antigua Guatemala, with its cobbled streets, is the perfect setting to enjoy the beauty and fervor of the processions.

Thousands of local and foreign tourists can explore the cities and towns of Guatemala, meet the locals, taste delicious traditional food, and experience Guatemalan culture first-hand during Holy Week. Remember, at Travelisimo you can plan all your travel activities!