Holy Week in Madrid is a time of deep reflection and rich tradition, especially on Holy Thursday, April 17, 2025. The streets of the capital will come alive with several significant processions that commemorate the last moments of Christ on Earth, including his passion, death, and resurrection. This year, thousands of Spaniards will don their finest attire to witness the solemn and vibrant parades that have been a staple of Spanish culture for centuries.
The festivities kick off with the procession of Nuestro Padre Jesús Nazareno 'El Pobre' and María Santísima del Dulce Nombre en su Soledad, which will commence at 18:00 from the Iglesia de San Pedro El Viejo, located at Calle Nuncio, 14. This procession is notable for its deep-rooted history, tracing its origins back to 1940. The figures of Jesus and Mary, both revered in their own right, will be accompanied by nazarenos dressed in purple robes, a symbol of their devotion. As the procession reaches Plaza de la Villa around 19:30, the renowned cantaor Moisés Vargas will perform a saeta, adding an emotional layer to the event.
Following closely is the procession of Nuestro Padre Jesús del Gran Poder and María Santísima de la Esperanza Macarena, which will set off at 18:30 from the Colegiata de Nuestra Señora del Buen Consejo y San Isidro, situated at C/ Toledo, 37. This procession is expected to pass through the iconic Puerta del Sol around 21:30, where Morenito de Íllora Hijo will pay tribute with another saeta from the balcony of the Real Casa de Correos.
Additionally, the procession of El Divino Cautivo will begin at 19:00 from the Colegio Calasancio de los padres escolapios (General Díaz Porlier, 58). This particular procession is tied to the educational community and carries a poignant history, having been founded in 1944. The image of El Divino Cautivo, depicting Jesus in a moment of serene captivity, will be carried through the streets by nazarenos clad in white, reflecting the purity of their faith.
Another significant procession on this day is that of Jesús Nazareno and the Virgen de la Soledad, which will depart at 20:00 from the Parroquia de San Andrés Apóstol de Villaverde (Calle Oxígeno, 15). This procession will return to the parish around 23:00, showcasing the community's strong ties to their religious traditions.
As the processions unfold, the city will temporarily pedestrianize up to 22 streets in the Centro and Salamanca districts from Holy Thursday until Resurrection Sunday, with traffic restrictions in place to ensure the safety and comfort of the attendees. These measures will be coordinated with the Municipal Police, who will manage any necessary traffic cuts to prevent overcrowding on sidewalks and roadways.
The atmosphere during Holy Week is further enriched by the emotional saetas sung from balconies throughout the city. These traditional flamenco songs are an integral part of the Semana Santa experience in Madrid, with performances scheduled at various locations, including the Real Casa de Correos and Casa de la Villa.
As the processions of Holy Thursday mark the beginning of a series of events leading up to Resurrection Sunday, they serve as a reminder of the spiritual significance of these days. The processions will continue with a series of events on Good Friday, April 18, including the Divino Cautivo procession passing through Puerta del Sol around 21:45, accompanied by the talented cantaor Manuel de la Tomasa.
Other anticipated processions on Good Friday include the Cristo de Medinaceli, which will also traverse Sol around 21:30, with Lela Soto providing a musical tribute, and the Cristo de los Alabarderos, expected to cross through Sol by 22:05, while Reyes Carrasco will perform a saeta at Plaza de la Villa around 21:00.
On Holy Saturday, April 19, the Soledad y el Desamparo procession will begin from the Iglesia de la Concepción Real de Calatrava, passing through Puerta del Sol, with performances from notable cantaoras such as Rocío Luna. Finally, on Resurrection Sunday, April 20, a Eucharist will be celebrated at the Monasterio Jerónimo del Corpus Christi, followed by the traditional Tamborrada de Resurrección, culminating in the Plaza Mayor.
The rich tapestry of Holy Week in Madrid is a testament to the city's enduring faith and cultural heritage. Each procession not only reflects the solemnity of the events being commemorated but also showcases the vibrant community spirit that thrives in Madrid, making this a truly special time of year.
