On Friday, April 18, 2025, the streets of Madrid came alive with the vibrant processions of Semana Santa, as five brotherhoods took part in a deeply rooted tradition, with La Almudena Cathedral serving as a significant backdrop. This year, the festivities were particularly noteworthy due to the attendance of key political figures and the rich history surrounding the beloved image of Nuestro Padre Jesús Nazareno de Medinaceli.
The first brotherhood to step out was El Divino Cautivo, which began its station of penance at 18:30 from the Cathedral of La Almudena. This exquisite statue, crafted by Mariano Benlliure, started the evening’s solemn yet celebratory events. Shortly thereafter, at around 19:00, the Santísimo Cristo de los Alabarderos made its way from the Puerta del Príncipe of the Royal Palace, accompanied by the sweet melodies of flutes, adding a musical touch to the atmosphere.
At the same time, María Santísima de los Siete Dolores also commenced her procession from the cathedral, showcasing her newly adorned green candles, which drew the attention of onlookers. However, the highlight of the evening was the procession of Jesús Nazareno de Medinaceli, which began at 19:00. This revered image, accompanied by his Dolorosa, is a focal point of devotion for many Madrileños, and it was set to traverse a route that included Calle Duque de Medinaceli, Plaza de las Cortes, and Puerta del Sol, before concluding back at the Basílica de Jesús de Medinaceli.
As the night progressed, the anticipation built for the Santo Entierro, which was scheduled to leave the parish of Santa Cruz at 21:00. This year marked a special occasion as the brotherhood celebrated 300 years of history. The Santo Entierro procession is known for its synchronization of sacred elements on the streets, culminating in a powerful display of faith and community.
Earlier in the day, Isabel Díaz Ayuso, the president of the Community of Madrid, received the medal of Esclava de Honor from the Archicofradía Primera de la Real e Ilustre Esclavitud de Nuestro Padre Jesús de Medinaceli. The ceremony took place at the Basílica de Jesús de Medinaceli, where she was presented with this honor by Miguel Ángel Izquierdo, the brother mayor of the Archicofradía. This recognition highlights the enduring significance of the Cristo de Medinaceli, a 17th-century carving deeply cherished by the people of Madrid.
The Basílica, located in the Plaza de Jesús, is one of the five basilicas in the capital and is renowned for housing the image of the Cristo de Medinaceli. This image has a storied past, having been carved in Seville and transported to North Africa before being rescued and brought back to Spain. The devotion to this figure has remained strong, especially during Semana Santa, where thousands gather to witness the processions.
As the processions unfolded, the weather posed a challenge, with forecasts predicting rain throughout the day. However, the unpredictable nature of Semana Santa weather often adds an element of surprise, with many hoping for a reprieve from the rain. Despite the ominous forecast, the spirit of the celebrations remained undeterred, as the brotherhoods prepared to honor their traditions.
The history of the Cristo de Medinaceli is as captivating as its current veneration. Originally moved to Mámora in North Africa, the image faced peril when the town fell to Musley Ismael in 1681. It was captured and dragged through the streets of Mequínez as a symbol of disdain against Christianity. The image was ultimately rescued by Fray Pedro de los Ángeles, who negotiated its release by paying its weight in gold coins—a miraculous feat that has become part of its legend.
During the Spanish Civil War, the image was once again under threat. On March 13, 1936, local devotees successfully prevented its destruction by hiding it in a wooden box within the convent's basement. The image was later moved to various locations, including Barcelona and Geneva, before finally returning to Madrid in 1939, where it was received with military honors in Pozuelo de Alarcón.
The annual Semana Santa processions are not only a display of religious devotion but also a cultural event that unites the community. This year, political figures such as Mayor José Luis Martínez-Almeida and other local officials attended the processions, emphasizing the importance of this tradition in Madrid’s cultural fabric.
As the processions continued, the streets filled with both locals and tourists, all eager to partake in this rich tradition. The atmosphere was charged with excitement, as families gathered to witness the solemnity and beauty of the events. The blend of history, faith, and community spirit makes Semana Santa a unique experience in Madrid.
In addition to the religious significance, the processions also serve as a reminder of the resilience of the community and its dedication to preserving its traditions. The stories of the Cristo de Medinaceli, from its harrowing past to its current status as a symbol of hope and devotion, resonate deeply with the people of Madrid.
As the night drew to a close, the faithful continued to gather at the Basílica, reflecting on the day’s events and the significance of their traditions. The processions of Semana Santa not only honor the past but also strengthen the bonds of community, reminding everyone of the enduring power of faith and shared history.
