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 veils
A penitent cross bearer being helped
Santa Semana in Quito Ecuador
Wrapped in barbed wire
The marchers came in all ages
Marchers chained to their crosses
Not sure what the significance of the CD”s are…
Shackled and wrapped in wire
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.
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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?