Semana Santa: Holy Week Observances in Seville and Antigua

Semana Santa, or Holy Week, marks the last week of Lent and is renowned for the reenactment of Christ's passion, especially on Good Friday. The most significant observances occur in Seville, Spain, and Antigua, Guatemala. In Seville, grand processions feature elaborate floats called 'Paso,' depicting religious scenes, carried by costaleros. Participants, known as Nazarenes, wear distinctive attire for penance. In Antigua, similar processions occur, with participants called cucarachas, and the streets are adorned with intricate carpets. Both cities embody a deep sense of penitence and reflection during this period.

What is Semana Santa, and why is it significant?

• A reenactment of the Passion of Christ

• A week-long celebration of Easter

• A festival of lights

• A celebration of the harvest

What are the floats in Seville's Semana Santa processions called?

• Pasos

• Flotas

• Barcos

• Carros

What is the role of the Nazarenes in Seville's Semana Santa?

• They play musical instruments

• They organize the event

• They carry the floats

• They march in silence with candles

How do the Nazarenes in Seville differ from those in Antigua?

• They do not participate in processions

• They sing hymns

• They carry different symbols

• They wear different colored robes

What unique element is included in Antigua's Semana Santa processions?

• Fireworks

• Horses

• Lanterns

• Balloons

What materials are used to create the carpets in Antigua's Semana Santa?

• Flowers, fruits, and pines

• Metal and glass

• Sand and stones

• Plastic and paper

What is the purpose of the candlelight vigils in Antigua?

• To mark the end of the festival

• To honor local heroes

• To symbolize penitence and reflection

• To celebrate the harvest