Seville's Holy Week, known for its deep-rooted traditions and solemnity, kicked off with the much-anticipated 'Madrugá' on April 18, 2025. This year, the festivities began with the departure of the Hermandad de La Macarena at midnight, marking a significant return after the processions were disrupted by rain in 2024. The streets of Seville were alive with the sounds of devotion as around 4,500 nazarenos, the first of an expected 15,000 participants, took to the streets, creating a mesmerizing spectacle of faith and heritage.
The event commenced at 00:00 hours when the Gran Poder brotherhood received permission to pass in front of La Macarena, setting the stage for a night filled with reverence and celebration. Among the attendees was Queen Sofía, who had earlier visited several key sites, including the Capilla de los Marineros de la Esperanza de Triana and the Gran Poder. Her presence underscored the cultural significance of the event, which draws both locals and tourists eager to witness this unique fusion of spirituality and artistry.
As the night unfolded, the procession of La Macarena captivated onlookers with its beautiful imagery and solemn atmosphere. The brotherhood's commitment to tradition was evident, especially after the previous year's cancellations. The procession was notable for its combination of solemnity and jubilation, which characterizes the various brotherhoods participating in the Madrugá.
Following La Macarena, the Hermandad de El Silencio departed at 1:00 AM from the Iglesia de San Antonio Abad, followed closely by the Gran Poder from the Basílica del Gran Poder. The Esperanza de Triana began its journey around 1:35 AM from the Capilla de los Marineros, while the Hermandad de Los Gitanos commenced an hour later from the Santuario. The Calvario brotherhood was the last to set out, leaving from the Parroquia de la Magdalena.
Throughout the night, the streets were filled with the sounds of traditional music and the soft murmur of prayers, creating an atmosphere that resonated with the deep spirituality of the occasion. Each brotherhood brought its unique flair to the event, with elaborate floats and dedicated participants dressed in traditional tunics, embodying the profound cultural heritage of Seville.
As dawn approached, the city was a blend of emotions—devotion, admiration, and a sense of community. The Madrugá is not just a religious event; it is a celebration of Seville's identity and history, where every step taken by the nazarenos is steeped in meaning.
On Good Friday, April 18, 2025, the city continued to embrace its rich traditions as eight brotherhoods took to the streets for their own processions. The day commenced in the early afternoon, with crowds gathering to witness the solemnity of the processions, which ran well into the night.
The official program for Good Friday included the following brotherhoods and their respective schedules:
- La Carretería: Departure at 16:15, passing Campana at 18:10, the Cathedral at 19:45, and returning by 23:00.
- La Soledad de San Buenaventura: Departure at 16:55, passing Campana at 18:50, the Cathedral at 20:30, and returning by 23:30.
- Montesión: Departure at 17:20, passing Campana at 19:10, the Cathedral at 21:00, and returning by 00:45 on April 19, 2025.
- La O: Departure at 17:50, passing Campana at 20:05, the Cathedral at 21:45, and returning by 01:30 on April 19, 2025.
- San Isidoro: Departure at 18:05, passing Campana at 20:10, the Cathedral at 22:10, and returning by 00:55 on April 19, 2025.
- El Cachorro: Departure at 19:00, passing Campana at 21:20, the Cathedral at 23:30, and returning by 02:45 on April 19, 2025.
- La Mortaja: Departure at 19:30, passing Campana at 22:10, the Cathedral at 00:15 on April 19, 2025, and returning by 02:45 on April 19, 2025.
- Sagrada Presentación (Pasión y Muerte): Departure at 20:30, returning by 00:00 on April 19, 2025; it does not pass through the Carrera Oficial or the Cathedral.
For those hoping to catch the processions, strategic viewing locations were highlighted, including the Puente de Triana for El Cachorro and La O, Postigo del Aceite for La Carretería, and Plaza del Salvador for San Isidoro and Montesión. Each location offered a unique vantage point to experience the emotional weight of the processions.
Rafa, a 28-year-old participant, shared his experience of engaging in both the Madrugá and Good Friday processions. "I went out in the Madrugá and I'm doing it again on Good Friday. I haven't slept a wink, but I can't miss it. I've been doing double stations for years. It's an effort that fills my soul. I feel like if I don't go out, something is missing," he expressed, highlighting the deep personal connection many have with these traditions.
As the sun set and the processions continued, the spirit of Seville's Holy Week remained palpable, a testament to the city's enduring faith and cultural heritage. The blend of solemnity and celebration, of silence and song, created a rich tapestry that encapsulated the essence of Semana Santa in Seville.
With the culmination of the Madrugá and the ongoing Good Friday processions, Seville once again showcased its unique ability to weave together history, faith, and community in a profound and moving manner.
