holy week

Origins of the Seville Holy Week

Holy Week commemorates the different stages in the Passion of Jesus Christ, from the moment he rode into Jerusalem to his crucifixion, death, and resurrection.

Seville’s Holy Week is directly related to the founding of the brotherhoods. There are historical documents which speak of the existence of brotherhoods in Seville dating back to the XIII century, as groups of the faithful which discreetly observed religious life inside temples and convents.

Curiosities

The first processions did not carry images. They just carried a parish cross, and the priest carried a crucifix.

In 1604 Cardenal Fernando Niño of Guevara ordered the brotherhoods to go to the Cathedral to take part in the Season of Penitence, and the sisterhoods went to the Triana district to do the same in the Santa Ana main parish, given how difficult it was to cross the Guadalquivir River. This is how the current “official procession” came about, with all the brotherhoods walking past the Cathedral.

Discover more about Holy Week

Monument schedules

The usual opening times to visit chapels may be different, depending on the day that the sisterhoods complete their season of penitence. Click on the following link to see the timetable and routes for the processions. The opening times of the monuments are also affected throughout the week.

A unique Holy Week

If you are interested in spending a special and enjoyable Holy Week in a privileged setting, we can give you information on balcony reservations, tours of the brotherhoods, and other activities.

During Holy Week, some roads will be closed to traffic. This will mainly affect the city centre, where we are located, so we recommend avoiding travelling by car during peak times. We have our own garage, and we recommend booking a space before you arrive, as spaces are limited. If you have any questions about accessing the hotel, or moving around the area, please contact us. We will be delighted to help you.