Holy Thursday, April 17, 2025, marks one of the most intense days of Holy Week in Zaragoza, Spain. The city's streets transform into a sacred path as 16 brotherhoods, or cofradías, take to the streets from morning until dawn, creating a vibrant atmosphere filled with solemnity, tradition, and mass participation. Processions will run throughout the day, with significant traffic disruptions expected as the faithful gather to witness this deeply rooted cultural and religious event.
Starting at 11:00 AM, the first processions will begin, leading to traffic restrictions across various key areas of the city. Notably affected streets include Paseo Cuéllar, Don Jaime, Plaza de España, and Coso. The impact on public transport will be considerable, with numerous bus lines, including 21, 22, 23, and many others, facing diversions. Additionally, the tram service will be interrupted between Plaza del Pilar and Gran Vía during critical hours, specifically from 1:00 PM to 2:15 PM and again from 5:00 PM to 11:15 PM.
The program for Holy Thursday is packed, featuring 14 significant processions that traverse the historic center and various neighborhoods such as Oliver, Delicias, and La Magdalena. Each procession tells a unique story, reflecting the rich history and deep faith of Zaragoza's residents. The first procession, the Cofradía de la Exaltación de la Santa Cruz, departs from the Real Maestranza de Caballería at 11:00 AM, arriving at Santa Isabel by 2:15 PM. Following closely, the Cofradía de la Crucifixión del Señor will set off at the same time from San Antonio de Padua, reaching its destination at 2:55 PM.
Another notable procession is the Cofradía de Cristo Abrazado a la Cruz, which begins at 11:00 AM from El Carmen and arrives at Santa Isabel at 3:20 PM. The day continues with the Coronation of Thorns at noon, and the Sacred Eucharist procession at 5:45 PM, culminating in the evening with the touching processions like the Prayer of the Garden and the Silence procession, which starts at 8:00 PM from the Iglesia de San Pablo.
As the sun sets, the atmosphere grows even more poignant. The Hermandad de Cristo Despojado de sus Vestiduras will start at 6:30 PM, and later, the Real Cofradía de Nuestro Señor en la Oración del Huerto will commence its procession at 7:15 PM. The evening culminates with the Silence procession at 8:00 PM, which is known for its solemnity and emotional depth, concluding around 11:30 PM.
As the night deepens, the Cofradía de la Coronación de Espinas will also have its procession starting at 8:00 PM, and the Cofradía del Descendimiento de la Cruz will follow, beginning at the Iglesia de Santa Isabel at 8:00 PM and concluding at 11:40 PM. The final procession of the night, the Cofradía de Nuestra Señora de la Asunción y Llegada de Jesús al Calvario, will start at 9:15 PM, finishing at 12:45 AM on April 18.
During this day, the streets will be filled with the sounds of drums, the sight of hooded figures, and the fragrance of incense, creating a unique sensory experience. The processions are not just religious observances; they are a testament to the community's faith and commitment to preserving their traditions. The event draws thousands of locals and tourists alike, all eager to witness and partake in the sacred rituals.
For those planning to attend, it is advisable to arrive early to secure a good viewing spot, especially at key locations like Plaza del Pilar and La Seo, which are renowned for their visibility of the main processions. Attendees should also consider wearing comfortable clothing and bringing water, as the day can be long and physically demanding.
The city of Zaragoza is well-prepared for this significant event, with the Ayuntamiento de Zaragoza and the Junta de Cofradías ensuring that all details are in place for a smooth celebration. The combination of tradition and modernity characterizes this year's Holy Week, promising a memorable experience for all.
As the processions unfold, they will not only reflect the religious significance of the day but also foster a sense of community and shared heritage among participants and spectators alike. Holy Thursday in Zaragoza is a day where faith, tradition, and culture intertwine, leaving a lasting impression on all who partake in its solemn beauty.
