On April 14, 2025, the city of Malaga will witness a vibrant display of religious devotion as various brotherhoods participate in the Holy Monday processions, known locally as "Lunes Santo." This event features the processions of the Passion, Crucifixion, Gitanos, Dolores del Puente, Cautivo, and Estudiantes, each showcasing a unique blend of solemnity and fervor as they traverse the streets of the capital.
According to the State Meteorological Agency (AEMET), the weather for this year's Holy Monday is expected to be unstable, with a 60% chance of rain until noon and a 35% chance until 6 PM. After that time, no rain is anticipated, allowing the processions to proceed unhindered. Despite the forecast, the day promises to be a significant one for the neighborhood of Trinidad, where the iconic figure of Jesus Cautivo will make his appearance, renowned for his striking white tunic and angelic presence.
The processions will also feature the popular brotherhoods of Gitanos and Estudiantes, alongside the Virgin of Dolores del Puente, whose somber presence adds a contrasting tone to the day's festivities. Additionally, this year marks a notable change for the Passion brotherhood, which will debut a new Corporate Guidon, replacing the one that had been in use since 1976. The previous guidon had deteriorated over time, and the new design reflects a modern aesthetic while honoring the brotherhood's rich history.
Among the highlights for El Cautivo this year are several new items, including a Lord's tunic made from angel skin and adorned with gold lace, donated by the Palomo family. The Lord's scapular, featuring silk embroidery in gold and silk thread, and the poles of the throne of María Santísima de la Trinidad, crafted from aluminum by Antonio Cabra's workshops, are also set to make their debut.
For those wanting to catch the processions, there are several prime viewing locations. The Estudiantes will be accompanied by the traditional "Gaedamus Igitur" song as they pass through the Plaza del Obispo and along Calle Císter, which has become a popular spot for spectators. The Crucifixion brotherhood will make its way to the Cathedral, while El Cautivo's journey through the streets of his neighborhood and over the iconic Puente de la Aurora is a sight not to be missed. The Passion brotherhood will also perform its penitential station at the Cathedral, and the Gitanos will be seen at their encierro, particularly as they pass through Plaza de La Merced. Lastly, Dolores del Puente will be visible as she makes her way from the parish of San Carlos and Santo Domingo de Guzmán, adding to the day's rich tapestry of sights and sounds.
As the excitement of Holy Monday unfolds, the weather will continue to be a concern for the brotherhoods as they prepare for the following day, known as Martes Santo. The forecast indicates a 75% chance of rain between 6 AM and noon on Tuesday, April 15, 2025, with the probability increasing to 95% from noon until 6 PM. This could pose a challenge for brotherhoods like El Rocío, which is scheduled to depart from its Casa Hermandad at 3 PM. Other brotherhoods, including Penas, Nueva Esperanza, Humillación y Estrella, and Rescate, will also be at risk of rain during their processions.
Fortunately, Sentencia, which is set to leave after 7 PM, is not expected to be affected by the rain. The weather is predicted to clear up after 6 PM, providing a brief respite until a storm system from the Atlantic returns instability to the region later in the week. Temperatures on Martes Santo are expected to be cooler, with highs not exceeding 18 degrees Celsius and lows between 11 and 13 degrees.
Wednesday, April 16, 2025, is forecasted to bring more rain and cloud cover throughout the day, with temperatures remaining similar to those of the previous day. The weather in nearby municipalities such as Torremolinos and Benalmádena will reflect similar patterns, with cloudy skies and potential light rain.
As Malaga prepares for these significant religious observances, the interplay between faith and weather adds a layer of complexity to the celebrations. The brotherhoods remain hopeful that the rain will hold off long enough to allow their processions to proceed as planned, ensuring that the spirit of Holy Week remains vibrant and meaningful for all participants and attendees.
