Taxco, a picturesque town in Guerrero, Mexico, witnessed a profound display of faith and tradition as thousands participated in the Semana Santa (Holy Week) festivities, particularly the impressive procession of Los Cristos on the night of April 17, 2025. This annual event has become a cornerstone of the local culture, attracting both residents and tourists alike.
The Procesión de Los Cristos is recognized as the longest procession during Holy Week in Taxco. Officially, 49 Cristos are acknowledged, but nearly 70 neighborhoods and colonies joined in this year's celebration, showcasing the community's deep-rooted religious fervor. The procession began at 10:30 PM on Thursday and continued into the early hours of Good Friday, lasting approximately six hours.
As the procession commenced from the Santuario de La Veracruz, the streets filled with penitents and devotees, carrying images of Jesus Crucified. Among them were approximately 600 men and 300 women, who participated in various disciplines as members of the brotherhood known as Las Ánimas. The atmosphere was charged with spirituality, as the participants engaged in acts of penance, carrying heavy rolls of zarzamora thorns that weighed between 45 and 50 kilograms.
These thorny rolls, consisting of 144 branches, are a significant part of the penitents' journey, symbolizing their devotion and sacrifice. Each roll costs around 1800 pesos, a price that reflects the increasing costs associated with this traditional practice. Many penitents expressed their commitment to these rituals as a means of seeking peace and tranquility in their lives, especially in light of the violence that has plagued the region in past years.
One participant noted, “We do this for love and to live peacefully, to not get into trouble, and to put ourselves in God’s hands.” This sentiment resonates deeply within the community, as many have turned to faith as a source of strength amid challenges.
The procession also featured participants known as flagelantes, who engage in self-flagellation as a form of penance, striking their backs until they bleed. This practice, while controversial, is a long-standing tradition that highlights the extremes some will go to express their devotion. The flagelantes, clad in black robes and masks, added a dramatic element to the procession, embodying the spiritual struggle that Semana Santa represents.
In addition to the penitents, the presence of the almas (souls in purgatory) was notable. These participants, dressed in black with hoods obscuring their faces, carried rosaries and candles, contributing to the somber yet hopeful atmosphere of the event.
The procession’s route took participants through the historic streets of Taxco, including Reforma, La Garita, and the Zócalo, where they gathered to bid farewell before returning to their respective temples. The event not only serves as a religious observance but also reinforces community identity and cultural heritage.
Historically, Taxco has been a center of religious devotion, with the first chapel established in the area in 1580. This chapel, known as La Veracruz, is the very site from which the procession departs. The town's rich history is intertwined with the traditions of Semana Santa, which have evolved over centuries, influenced by both Spanish colonial practices and local customs.
Despite the challenges posed by organized crime in recent years, the spirit of the community remains resilient. The turnout for this year’s procession was a testament to the collective desire for peace and continuity of tradition. Local residents, who once faced threats and violence, now come together in solidarity, embracing their cultural and religious identity.
As the procession concluded, the streets of Taxco were illuminated by candlelight, creating a breathtaking scene that captured the essence of the celebration. The sounds of traditional music filled the air, blending with the rustling of the crowd, as families and friends gathered to reflect on the significance of the events they had just witnessed.
The activities of Holy Week in Taxco are set to continue with more events planned for Good Friday, including the dramatization of the three falls of Christ and the somber procession of Silence later in the evening. Each event is designed to deepen the community's connection to their faith and to honor the passion, death, and resurrection of Jesus Christ.
In this way, Semana Santa in Taxco is not just a series of religious observances; it is a vibrant expression of the town’s identity, a time when the community comes together to celebrate their beliefs and traditions.
