This Holy Thursday, April 17, 2025, the streets of Madrid and Seville resonated with the solemnity and fervor of traditional Semana Santa processions, showcasing the rich cultural and religious heritage of Spain. In Madrid, the Real, Ilustre y Fervorosa Hermandad y Cofradía de Nazarenos de Nuestro Padre Jesús del Gran Poder y María Santísima de la Esperanza Macarena led a procession that attracted thousands of faithful and visitors alike, reaffirming the city’s commitment to preserving its cultural traditions.
The procession departed from the church of the Real Colegiata de San Isidro at 8:00 PM, punctually accompanied by the Agrupación Musical Ecce Mater de Cádiz. As the cross of guide and the retinue of penitents set out from the nearby temple of the Inmaculada Concepción, the atmosphere was charged with devotion.
Among the notable attendees was Madrid’s Mayor, José Luis Martínez-Almeida, who participated actively alongside other municipal officials, including Borja Carabante, Carlos Segura, and Nadia Álvarez. Their presence underscored the institutional commitment to the preservation of cultural and religious traditions within the city.
The procession wound its way through several iconic streets, including Toledo Street, Plaza Mayor, Puerta del Sol, and Plaza de la Villa. Each step was marked by moments of deep devotion, such as the silent prayers of the attendees and the heartfelt saetas sung from central balconies, which added an emotional touch to this significant event.
The image of Nuestro Padre Jesús del Gran Poder, sculpted by José Rodríguez y Fernández-Andes, was blessed in Madrid on March 20, 1942, and restored in 1997. This masterpiece, alongside María Santísima de la Esperanza Macarena, attributed to Antonio Eslava Rubio, showcases the artistic brilliance and cultural significance of the procession, which has been a staple of Madrid’s Semana Santa since its first station of penance in 1946.
Meanwhile, in Seville, another significant event unfolded as the Gran Poder brotherhood made its station of penance during the Madrugá. This venerable brotherhood features two principal floats: the first displays Jesus with the cross on his shoulder, known as the 'Lord of Seville,' while the second depicts the Virgin of Greater Pain and Transfer, accompanied by Saint John the Evangelist.
The Gran Poder procession stands out for its approximately 2,700 nazarenes, who advance in silence, creating an atmosphere of solemnity and reflection. Notably, this brotherhood does not include musical accompaniment during its procession, intensifying the sense of devotion among participants.
Jesús del Gran Poder is a masterpiece by the renowned image maker Juan de Mesa, crafted in 1620, while the Virgin of Greater Pain and Transfer is of anonymous origin. The artistic heritage of the Gran Poder brotherhood is exceptional, with both images being of significant historical value.
Tracing its roots back to 1431 in the convent of San Benito de Calatrava, the Hermandad del Gran Poder has a rich history. After temporary residences in Santiago de la Espada and the convent of Valle, it established itself in San Lorenzo from 1703 until 1965, when it moved to its current temple. The Holy See recognized the temple's importance by granting it the status of a minor basilica.
In 1995, the Gran Poder received the Gold Medal of the City of Seville, solidifying its place in the cultural identity of the city. The brotherhood not only focuses on religious and artistic dimensions but also engages in social action through its Charity Fund, which has been active for over 60 years.
On this Holy Thursday, the Gran Poder procession featured the incorporation of the relic of the lignum crucis for veneration, housed within a silver reliquary and positioned before the presidency of the procession. This addition was highlighted in social media communications by the brotherhood prior to the event.
The first levantá of the paso de misterio was dedicated to the brother mayor, acknowledging years of service to the brotherhood. This moment was marked by an embrace between the brother mayor and the capataz, accompanied by the sounds of the Agrupación Musical Nuestro Padre Jesús de la Piedad.
In Jaén, the Vera Cruz, Expiración, and Gran Poder processions also took place, filling the Carrera Oficial with spectators eager to witness the rich traditions of Holy Thursday. The Vera Cruz began its procession at San Ildefonso in the early afternoon, followed by the Expiración and Gran Poder later in the day.
Despite the previous days’ inclement weather, the processions were well-attended, with many people coming out to celebrate this deeply rooted cultural tradition. The atmosphere was one of unity and shared faith, as communities gathered to honor their religious heritage.
As the night wore on, the Gran Poder procession in Seville entered the Carrera Oficial around ten o'clock, marking the culmination of a day filled with reverence and celebration. The combination of solemnity, artistic beauty, and community involvement made this year’s Holy Thursday a memorable occasion, reinforcing the significance of Semana Santa in Spain's cultural landscape.
Both Madrid and Seville showcased their unique traditions this Holy Thursday, with processions that not only reflect religious devotion but also the cultural identity of their respective cities. The Gran Poder brotherhoods in both cities continue to attract large crowds, demonstrating the enduring appeal of these centuries-old traditions.
In summary, the processions of Holy Thursday, April 17, 2025, in Madrid and Seville, were a testament to the rich cultural and religious heritage of Spain, drawing thousands of participants and spectators who came together in devotion and celebration.
