A Picture is Worth a 1000 Words

This is a picture I took March 29th during the first day of the week long religious celebration Semana Santa or Holy Week which was taking place in Seville. I chose this photo in particular because I feel it showcases some of the more subtle aspects of Holy Week here beyond the processions. In the middle of the photo and on the right side are cloaked figures who are called Nazarenos or Penitentes. As the later name suggests they wear this particular attire as a form of penance while they march through the streets escorting huge wooden displays of the various stages of the life of Jesus among other religious figures such as the Virgin Mary while either carrying candles or wooden crosses

The Nazarenos are not limited to adults however as seen by the child in the background holding a candle, giving credence to the multi-generational appeal of Holy Week. This picture also highlights the lack of any difference between the penitents and the people on the sides watching the procession. Both are participating in Holy Week, it's just one is more passive. Holy Week proves to be a spectacle in Spain as countless numbers of people come out to view the processions. I feel this picture captures the enthusiasm for Holy Week both for those involved in the marches, in this case the penitents and those just watching. I can personally say that seeing what the penitents have to endure really gave me a respect for those who hold to their faith so dearly and so patiently in the face of onlookers.

I added this both to provide an example of the religious wooden sculptures and to add an additional insight
That whole structure is being carried by a group of people underneath it!