Vélez-Málaga – Holy Week of National Tourist Interest Holy Week in Vélez-Málaga is one of the most prominent in Eastern Andalusia. With over five centuries of history, it combines religious fervor, sacred art, and deep-rooted popular tradition. Participation: 19 brotherhoods carry 27 tronos (floats), many of them true masterpieces of Andalusian religious sculpture. Highlight: The float of María Santísima de la Esperanza, the largest in the province, is carried by 274 hombres de trono (float bearers). Routes and atmosphere: The processions wind through the historic city center, with narrow streets, slopes, and squares that frame unique and unforgettable scenes. Key dates: From Palm Sunday (April 13) to Easter Sunday (April 20), with the most intense events taking place on Holy Thursday and Good Friday. Military Participation – Regulares and the Spanish Legion Holy Thursday: The Regulares parade alongside the Virgen de la Piedad, showcasing their signature military style and the rhythm of North African drums, creating a solemn and powerful atmosphere. Good Friday: The Spanish Legion accompanies the Virgen de las Angustias, marking one of the most emotional and widely attended moments of Vélez-Málaga’s Holy Week.
Their quick marching pace and the singing of “El Novio de la Muerte” make this procession an unforgettable experience. Riogordo – “El Paso” A live reenactment of the Passion of Christ, declared a Festival of Tourist Interest in Andalusia. More than 500 locals perform in a natural open-air setting.
It takes place on Good Friday and Holy Saturday. Cajiz – Centuries-Old Tradition In this village of Vélez-Málaga, El Paso is a live representation with more than 100 years of history. It stands out for its intimacy, simplicity, and genuine emotion.
Performed on Good Friday and Holy Saturday, with strong community involvement. Frigiliana – Solemnity Among Whitewashed Streets Processions pass through the maze of cobbled streets with great solemnity. Particularly moving is the Silent Procession, accompanied only by candlelight and traditional saetas (flamenco-style religious songs). Nerja, Torrox, Algarrobo and More In Nerja, the Holy Burial Procession is a major highlight.
In Torrox, Cristo del Perdón is deeply venerated, and his procession is eagerly awaited. Each town experiences Holy Week with deep devotion and distinctive local character.