As the sun rises on Good Friday, April 18, 2025, the city of Granada comes alive with the solemnity and tradition of Holy Week. This year, six brotherhoods will take to the streets as part of the vibrant processions that characterize this deeply rooted cultural event. The Hermandad de la Hora Nona (Señor de la Humildad), Escolapios, Ferroviarios (Penitencia del Santísimo Cristo de la Buena Muerte), Los Favores, Santo Sepulcro, and Soledad y Descendimiento will march, each with its unique rituals and routes, culminating in a collective celebration of faith and community.
The first procession, led by the Hermandad de la Hora Nona, will depart from the Iglesia de Santo Domingo at 13:15. The procession will navigate through various streets, including plaza Santo Domingo and plaza del Realejo, and is expected to return to its temple by 16:00. This procession is particularly notable for its representation of humility and reflection, setting the tone for the day.
Following closely, the Hermandad de los Ferroviarios will begin its journey at 15:45 from the Iglesia parroquial de San Juan de Letrán. This procession will feature the Santísimo Cristo de la Buena Muerte and Nuestra Señora del Amor y del Trabajo, both of which are significant in the brotherhood's devotion. The route will take them through Avenida de la Constitución and other key locations, with a return to their headquarters at 00:30 on April 19, 2025.
At 18:20, the Escolapios will commence their procession from the Iglesia parroquial de San José de Calasanz. The brotherhood will make its way through the scenic streets of Granada, including the iconic Carrera de la Virgen, and will reach the S.I. Cathedral by 01:20 on April 19, 2025. This procession is expected to draw significant crowds, as it embodies the artistic and spiritual essence of Holy Week.
Meanwhile, the Hermandad de los Favores will set out at 18:45 from the Iglesia parroquial de San Cecilio. Their procession will feature the Santísimo Cristo de los Favores and María Santísima de la Misericordia Coronada. They will navigate through various plazas and streets, concluding their journey at 01:10 on April 19, 2025. This brotherhood is known for its vibrant colors and emotional displays of faith.
The Santo Sepulcro will begin its solemn procession at 19:15 from the Iglesia parroquial de San Gil y Santa Ana. This procession is particularly poignant, as it reflects on the themes of death and resurrection. The procession will conclude at 00:00 on April 19, 2025, after traversing through the heart of Granada.
Lastly, the Soledad y Descendimiento will depart from the Monasterio de San Jerónimo at 18:15. This procession will make its way through various significant locations, including plaza de la Universidad and Carrera de la Virgen, before returning to its temple at 00:50 on April 19, 2025. This brotherhood's focus on the themes of solitude and descent resonates deeply with the community, making it a highlight of the day.
The official route for the Semana Santa processions in Granada begins at the Carrera de la Virgen around 13:00 and concludes at the Santa Iglesia Catedral de Granada. This route is a cherished tradition, drawing both locals and visitors who wish to witness the rich cultural heritage of Granada.
As the day unfolds, the atmosphere is charged with anticipation and reverence. Each procession tells a story, not just of religious devotion, but also of community spirit and cultural identity. The streets of Granada will be lined with spectators, eager to witness the artistry and dedication that each brotherhood brings to the celebration.
In addition to the processions in Granada, the neighboring city of Seville will also host its own series of Good Friday processions, offering a unique perspective on the traditions of Holy Week. The Hermandad La Carretería will depart from the Capilla de la Carretería at 16:25, while the Hermandad La Soledad will follow at 17:50 from the Convento de San Buenaventura. Each procession will feature intricate floats and dedicated participants, showcasing the rich cultural tapestry of the region.
The Hermandad del Cachorro will begin its journey at 15:45 from the Basílica del Stmo. Cristo de la Expiración (Triana), while the Hermandad de la O will depart at 18:00 from the Parroquia de la O (Triana). These processions are known for their emotional depth and artistic representation, drawing large crowds who come to pay their respects and participate in the collective experience.
The Hermandad de San Isidoro will set out at 19:40, and the Hermandad de Montserrat will follow at 20:30. Each procession will traverse through the historic streets of Seville, culminating in a grand display of faith and artistry. The Hermandad de la Sagrada Mortaja will also participate, departing at 20:00, while the famous Los Gitanos will have their entry delayed until 13:45.
As the sun sets, the processions will continue, with the Hermandad del Silencio and the Hermandad del Gran Poder both beginning their journeys at 01:00 on April 19, 2025. The Hermandad de la Macarena will kick off its procession at midnight, showcasing the enduring spirit of the Semana Santa celebrations.
In Alicante, the Good Friday processions will also take place, beginning with the procession of the Sentence of Jesus at 10:15 from the Parroquia Inmaculada del Pla. This procession is known for its emotional resonance and will feature the Paso de la Sentencia de Jesús, a work by García Mengual.
The official procession of the Holy Burial will commence at 17:45 from the Parroquia San José de Carolinas, featuring the images of Mater Desolata and Santísimo Cristo de la Expiación. This year marks the 25th anniversary of the premiere of the mantle and diadem for Nuestra Señora de la Soledad de Santa María, adding a special significance to the event.
As the processions unfold across these cities, the shared themes of faith, community, and cultural heritage resonate deeply with participants and spectators alike. The solemnity of Good Friday serves as a reminder of the profound significance of these traditions in Spanish culture, inviting all to reflect on the deeper meanings of sacrifice and renewal.
