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Santa Semana – Easter Procession in Quito

Santa Semana – Easter Procession in Quito

An estimated quarter million people crowd into Historic Center of Quito on Good Friday for the Procession of Jesus of Great Power (Jesus de Gran Poder). Hundreds of people dressed in purple (the color of penitence) march ahead of the wooden sculpture of Jesus on the parade route that begins and ends at the Plaza San Francisco. The women known as “Veronicas”, wear purple veils. The men (“Cucuruchos”) wear long gowns, masks, and tall pointed hats, and additionally often perform other acts of penitence and humility, such as walking in bare feet, carrying heavy crosses, or wrapping themselves in barbed wire. The hot weather this Friday must have made the march even more difficult.

Veronicas Covered In Purple Veils

“Veronicas” covered in veils

2014-04-18 10.21.20

Easter Procession in Quito Ecuador

A penitent cross bearer being helped

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Purple Robes In Easter Process

Santa Semana in Quito Ecuador

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Wrapped in barbed wire

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The marchers came in all ages

Marchers In Easter Procession Chained To Their Crosses

Marchers chained to their crosses

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Not sure what the significance of the CD”s are…

2014-04-18 12.11.13

 

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barbed

Shackled and wrapped in wire

Carved Wooden Jesus statue held aloft at the end of the procession

Carved Wooden Jesus statue held aloft at the end of the procession

 

 

The huge procession was unlike anything we had seen before, and a great insight into the culture and traditions of Ecuador.

You may also like these related articles about Quito Ecuador

Weekend in Quito – Parque El Ejido Art Fair

Free Walking Tour of Quito Ecuador – Start Your Visit Here

 

Brianna

Monday 6th of April 2015

The unique celebrations of Semana Santa throughout Latin America are fascinating- thanks for sharing!

Uncover Your Caribbean

Monday 6th of April 2015

Powerful! Religious precessions are often very powerful. This would be a great one to experience.

Jenna

Sunday 5th of April 2015

It's always interesting to see how different cultures celebrate various holidays. This looks like an interesting celebration to check out--thanks for sharing!

Shazia Chiu

Sunday 5th of April 2015

Wow, what an interesting event to be part of. Thank you for sharing!

Francesca @onegrloneworld

Saturday 4th of April 2015

That was interesting, I'm so curious about these kinds of ceremonies because we don't do them here! I would have loved to know more... where do they go after? To a church service?