As the sun rises on April 13, 2025, cities across Spain prepare to celebrate Domingo de Ramos, the day that marks the beginning of Semana Santa (Holy Week). The day commemorates the triumphant entry of Jesus into Jerusalem, a moment filled with deep religious significance that draws thousands of devotees to the streets. From the traditional blessings of palms to the elaborate processions, the atmosphere is one of reverence and celebration.
In Villena, the festivities kick off at 11:30 AM with the Hermandad del Santísimo Cristo de la Luz y Jesús Rescatado, which will hold the traditional blessing of Las Palmas at the hermitage of San José. Following this, the procession of “La Borrica” will commence, taking participants through a scenic route that includes Calle La Tercia, Calle Baja, and Plaza de Santa María, before concluding at the Parroquia de Santa María. This event is particularly family-friendly, inviting everyone to join in with their palms or olive branches, dressed in Hebrew attire. The procession is a cherished tradition in Villena, bringing together community members, especially children, as they celebrate Jesus’s entry into Jerusalem.
After the procession, a Santa Misa de Palmas will be officiated by D. Rodrigo del Rosario López, the Consiliario of the Junta Mayor and the Parroco of the Parroquia de Santa María. Later in the day, at 5:00 PM, the Banda de C.C. T.T. de Ntra. Sra. del Dolor de Hellín will begin its entrance from Plaza del Rollo, marking another highlight of the day's events.
Meanwhile, in Seville, the atmosphere is electric as the first processions of the day begin. The Hiniesta brotherhood will start its procession at 1:00 PM from the barrio of San Julián, passing through the iconic Puerta de Córdoba. The procession is a colorful spectacle, showcasing the palio blue of the Virgen de la Hiniesta. Seville’s streets are lined with eager spectators, many of whom have been waiting since the previous Friday to witness the first nazarenos of the day.
As the day unfolds, the procession of La Borriquita, a significant part of Seville's Holy Week, will also take its turn. This procession, now separated from El Amor for 55 years, embodies the spirit of anticipation and joy that characterizes Domingo de Ramos.
In Pontevedra, the celebrations will officially commence with the Traslado de la imagen de Jesús entrando en Jerusalén at 11:45 AM from the Iglesia de San José. This procession will be followed by a general blessing of palms and ramos at 12:30 PM at the Atrio de San Francisco. The route includes key locations such as Paseo Antonio Odriozola and Avenida de Santa María, culminating in a Santa Misa at the Basílica de Santa María at 1:30 PM. The day is filled with additional masses throughout the city, ensuring that the spirit of Semana Santa is felt in every corner.
In Valencia, the celebrations mirror the fervor of other regions, beginning with a Bendición de Ramos and procession at the Catedral de Valencia at 11:00 AM. The day is packed with activities, including a special mass and various processions across multiple parishes in the city. The Semana Santa Marinera in the Cabañal and Grau neighborhoods offers a vibrant program, reflecting the deep-rooted traditions of the area.
As the sun sets, Zaragoza will host its own series of processions, beginning at noon with the Cofradía de la Entrada de Jesús en Jerusalén departing from the Iglesia de Santa Isabel de Portugal. The city will be alive with the sounds of music and the sights of colorful processions, culminating in a series of Vía Crucis events later in the evening.
Across all these regions, the symbols of palms and olive branches take on profound meanings. The palm represents victory and hope, while the olive symbolizes peace and reconciliation. These elements serve as reminders of the fragility of faith, echoing the biblical narrative of the same crowd that welcomed Jesus turning against him days later.
In La Laguna, the community gathers to witness the processions that commemorate the entry of Jesus into Jerusalem, surrounded by a festive atmosphere. The day is marked by a spirit of humility, as Jesus chose to enter Jerusalem on a donkey, symbolizing a mission of love, service, and forgiveness rather than one of power and conquest.
As evening falls, the processions continue, with many communities holding Vía Crucis events that trace the path of Christ's suffering. This symbolic journey through the 14 stations is a poignant reminder of the events that will unfold during the week.
For those planning to attend the events, arriving early is advisable to secure a good viewing spot and to soak in the atmosphere before the processions begin. In cities like Valencia, Zaragoza, and Seville, traffic disruptions are expected due to the large crowds, so public transportation is recommended.
As the day concludes, the spirit of Domingo de Ramos resonates deeply within the hearts of all participants, marking the beginning of a week filled with reflection, devotion, and community. Each procession tells a story, weaving together the threads of faith and tradition that have endured for generations. This year, as in years past, the echoes of “¡Hosanna!” will fill the air, celebrating the arrival of hope and renewal.
