Holy Week in Jumilla
Holy Week in Jumilla is a celebration with a long historical continuity, combining processions, sacred drama, sculptural heritage and strong brotherhood participation. It is designated a Festival of International Tourist Interest.
Dates and location
The Passion observances usually begin on the Friday of Sorrows and end on Easter Sunday. Processions cross central Jumilla, with the churches of Santiago, El Salvador, Santa María and San Juan Bautista among the principal venues; Santa Ana del Monte monastery is also an essential part of the cycle.
History and recognition
The Town Council places its origins in the late 16th century and identifies 1848 as a period of major growth, when new brotherhoods emerged alongside the historic Vera Cruz. The celebration received the Gold Medal of the Region of Murcia in 2000, National Tourist Interest status in 2003 and international recognition in 2019.
Characteristic processions and scenes
The calendar includes the Stations of the Cross on the Friday of Sorrows, the Palm Procession and the descent of Cristo Amarrado a la Columna on Palm Sunday. Holy Tuesday is marked by a nocturnal penitential procession; Holy Wednesday brings together the sacred drama El Prendimiento and the Jesús Prendido procession.
- Visits to the repositories and the Manolas on Maundy Thursday afternoon.
- The Amargura Procession on Thursday night.
- The Calvario and Santo Entierro processions on Good Friday.
- The Encounter, the El Caracol dance and the Jesús Resucitado procession on Easter Sunday.
Heritage and participation
Brotherhoods and confraternities preserve sculptures, floats, standards and ceremonial dress, while bands and the Armaos section contribute their own musical and ritual language. After the Resurrection procession, the parade and distribution of sweets reveal the popular character with which Jumilla closes the celebration.