Beginner's Guide to Semana Santa on the Costa del Sol

Semana Santa, or Holy Week, is one of the most significant religious events in Spain, especially in the Andalusian region. The Costa del Sol, encompassing Mijas, Fuengirola, and Málaga city, offers a unique and deeply moving experience during this time. For those new to these celebrations, this guide will provide an overview of the history, the processions, and what to expect during Semana Santa.

The History of Semana Santa

Semana Santa dates back to the Middle Ages and has been an integral part of Spanish culture for centuries. It commemorates the Passion, Death, and Resurrection of Jesus Christ through a series of processions organized by religious brotherhoods or "cofradías." These processions feature elaborate "tronos" (floats) carrying statues of Christ and the Virgin Mary, accompanied by "nazarenos" (penitents) dressed in traditional robes and pointed hoods.​

Processions in Málaga City

Málaga is renowned for its grand Semana Santa processions, attracting thousands of visitors each year. The city hosts 45 processions throughout the week, each with its own unique route and schedule. The first procession, known as "La Pollinica," traditionally begins on Palm Sunday at 9:45 am, marking the start of the Holy Week celebrations. The week concludes with "El Resucitado" on Easter Sunday, symbolizing the resurrection of Christ. ​

One of the most anticipated events is the arrival of the Spanish Legion on Maundy Thursday. They disembark at the port of Málaga and participate in the procession of the Christ of the Good Death, a spectacle that draws large crowds.

For detailed schedules and routes of the processions in Málaga, consult local guides or the official Semana Santa program available at tourist information centres.

Celebrations in Fuengirola

Fuengirola's Semana Santa is characterized by its intimate and community-focused processions. The town is home to several brotherhoods, including the Passion Brotherhood, Brotherhood of the Recumbent Christ, Brotherhood of Jesus Captive, and the Fusionada Brotherhood. 

In recent years, the Fuengirola town hall has produced handy pocket guides detailing the procession routes and schedules. These booklets are available at the town hall and municipal offices, and a digital version can be accessed here.

Semana Santa in Mijas

Mijas, with its picturesque whitewashed streets, offers a serene backdrop for the Holy Week processions. The celebrations are observed with special devotion across its different urban centres, from Mijas Pueblo to La Cala and Las Lagunas. 

The processions in Mijas are known for their solemnity and the participation of "nazarenos" in traditional hooded robes, adding to the profound atmosphere of the events.​

Understanding the Hooded Processions

The hooded figures, or "nazarenos," are a distinctive feature of Semana Santa processions. Their attire consists of a tunic and a conical hood, known as a "capirote," which covers the face. This tradition symbolizes penance and humility, allowing the participants to demonstrate their devotion anonymously.​

Attending the Processions

If you're planning to attend the Semana Santa processions in the Costa del Sol:

• Arrive Early: Popular processions can draw large crowds. Arriving early ensures a good viewing spot.​

• Check Schedules: Procession times and routes can change, especially due to weather conditions. For instance, in Málaga, rain forecasts have delayed processions. ​

• Stay Updated: Local tourist offices and official Semana Santa websites provide up-to-date information on schedules and any changes.​

  
  

Experiencing Semana Santa in the Costa del Sol offers a profound insight into Andalusian culture and traditions. Whether you're in Málaga, Fuengirola, or Mijas, the processions provide a moving and memorable experience that reflects the deep-rooted faith and artistry of the region.​