Málaga is set to witness one of the most anticipated events of Holy Week, the traditional landing of the Spanish Legion and the subsequent procession of the Cristo de la Buena Muerte, commonly referred to as the Cristo de Mena. Scheduled for Thursday, April 17, 2025, this event begins at 10:00 AM at the Muelle 2-Palmeral de las Sorpresas. The occasion draws thousands of spectators who gather to witness the solemnity and pageantry associated with this time-honored tradition.
The Maritime Action Ship (BAM) 'Furor' (P-46), which is replacing the Logistic Transport 'Contramaestre Casado', will dock at the port, bringing with it the company of honors from the Tercio Alejandro Farnesio IV of La Legión. This year marks the second participation of the 'Furor' in this event, which has become a significant part of Málaga's Holy Week celebrations.
On the afternoon of Wednesday, April 16, at 4:00 PM, the BAM 'Furor' departed from the Muelle de La Curra in Cartagena, carrying 160 legionnaires from the Compañía de Honores. This unit is known for its discipline and dedication, and they will march through the streets of Málaga to the Church of Santo Domingo, where the procession will commence.
As the legionnaires disembark at 10:00 AM, they will form up at the dock, ready to be reviewed by local authorities and representatives of the Congregación de Mena, including important figures such as the president of the Junta, Juanma Moreno, and the president of the Andalusian Parliament, Jesús Aguirre. The atmosphere is expected to be electric, with many attendees eager to witness the landing and participate in the celebrations.
Once on land, the legionnaires will march in formation, dressed in their distinctive uniforms and carrying traditional weapons. This display of military precision adds a unique and solemn element to the event, making it one of the highlights of the Semana Santa in Málaga. The landing is not just a military ceremony; it is a deeply emotional moment for many locals who cherish this tradition.
After the disembarkation, the legionnaires will proceed through the city, following a new route that includes significant locations such as Plaza de la Marina, Plaza del Obispo, and Plaza de La Legión Española. The entire procession is expected to conclude around 12:00 PM when they will arrive at the plaza de Fray Alonso de Santo Tomás, where the solemn transfer of the Cristo de la Buena Muerte will take place.
At approximately 12:00 PM, the transfer of the Cristo de la Buena Muerte from the Church of Santo Domingo to its processional throne will commence. This moment is steeped in tradition, as the image is carried by a squad of legionnaires known as gastadores. The Cristo de Mena, weighing 180 kilograms, is a significant symbol of devotion and faith for many in Málaga.
As the legionnaires carry the statue, they will sing their iconic hymn, "El Novio de la Muerte," a song that evokes strong emotions and is a hallmark of the Legion's presence in Málaga. This moment is not only a display of military honor but also a celebration of the cultural and spiritual significance of the Cristo de Mena.
In the evening, at 7:30 PM, the station of penance of the Hermandad de Mena will begin, marking the official start of the procession. The route will take the procession through some of Málaga's most emblematic streets, including Calle Larios and the Plaza de la Constitución, culminating in a deeply moving experience for all those in attendance.
This year, the event is expected to attract even larger crowds than in previous years, as the tradition continues to resonate with both locals and visitors. The landing of the Legion and the procession of the Cristo de Mena are not only a testament to the enduring legacy of the Spanish Legion but also a vibrant celebration of Málaga's rich cultural heritage.
For those unable to attend in person, the landing and procession will be broadcast live on Canal Málaga via 13TV and RTVE La1, allowing viewers to experience the ceremony and its accompanying traditions from the comfort of their homes. Additionally, minute-by-minute updates will be available online, providing a comprehensive view of this significant event.
As Málaga prepares for this year's landing of the Legion, the excitement and anticipation are palpable. This cherished tradition, with its blend of military honor and deep-rooted cultural significance, continues to captivate the hearts of all who witness it.
The landing of the Legion and the transfer of the Cristo de la Buena Muerte represent a unique intersection of faith, history, and community spirit, making it one of the most memorable moments of the Semana Santa celebrations in Málaga.
