One might think that once you've seen one Holy Week, you've seen them all. In general, nothing could be further from the truth. In particular, in the case of Cartagena, it’s a complete mistake. Cartagena has developed its own unique identity through massive thrones characterised by their flower and light architecture, imagery created by renowned sculptors like Francisco Salzillo and Mariano Benlliure, and a procession style marked by exquisite order, complete silence, and the rhythm set by the bands and drums with their processional marches. Not to mention the military detachments that escort many of the thrones.

The five brotherhoods of the city (and don’t think they’re few, as they are subdivided into different groups) will be the ones to parade between Good Friday (27th March) and Easter Sunday (5th April), filling the streets with their processional steps and colouring them with the black, red, purple, and white of their garments.

Remember these two names. They refer to the members of 'La Real e Ilustre Cofradía de Nuestro Padre Jesús Nazareno' and 'La Pontificia, Real e Ilustre Cofradía de Nuestro Padre Jesús en el Doloroso Paso del Prendimiento y Esperanza de la Salvación de las Almas'. It is said that the "marrajos" got their name because they raised the necessary funds for a procession from the sale of a mako shark; and that the "californios" owe their name to the influence of wealthy people from California who joined the brotherhood.

Of course, the rivalry between them is guaranteed, as are the constant attempts to outdo each other; and this, to the delight and enjoyment of the public, has translated into ever more spectacular processions, which even include grenadiers dressed in uniforms replicating those of the 18th century. The "marrajos" are responsible for the oldest processions of Holy Week in Cartagena: the Encuentro and Santo Entierro (on the early morning and night of Good Friday), as well as the La Piedad and Vera Cruz processions. Meanwhile, the Prendimiento (on the night of Holy Wednesday), the Cristo de la Misericordia (on the night of Good Friday), the Palm Sunday procession, and the Silencio procession (on the night of Holy Thursday) are the responsibility of the californios.

We know that what you really want is to experience the processions, immerse yourself in their silences, be surprised by the spontaneous applause from the audience, or get emotional with a saeta. However, we encourage you to visit the Church of Santa María de Gracia hours before the processions begin. Most of the processions start from there, and it’s the place where you can see how the thrones are prepared, the work of the floral artists, and how the statues are dressed...

Enjoying the processions will also allow you to enjoy the city, as you find your spot to watch them or walk along to accompany them. Trust us, with all that movement and so many hours spent on the streets, Cartagena will be brimming with life. Don’t forget to head to the port, where there's more life than usual with the departure of one procession after another, and remember that landmarks like the Roman Theatre are still there, waiting for your visit.

And if that’s not enough, the city has launched a cultural programme with more than 100 activities linked to Holy Week. They are hosting round tables, parades, book presentations, meditations, theatre, and exhibitions.

We’re in Cartagena. You’ll find us at the Sercotel Alfonso XIII Hotel and the Sercotel Carlos III Hotel. Both are incredibly central, just a short walk from the Roman Theatre or the Port. Perfect for arriving, parking your car in our parking lot, and having everything at your fingertips: the lively atmosphere of the city during these days and the calm and tranquility we offer as soon as you step through our door. We also offer those little details designed to make your getaway easy and enjoyable: buffet breakfast, pillow menu, gym… Just ask, and we’ll take care of the rest.