The story of our move to Andalucia .... and our move back to the UK

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Friday, 10 April 2009

Semana Santa - NOT Santa Semana

Semana Santa (Holy Week) in Spain is a massively important week, especially in Almeria. It runs from Palm Sunday through to Easter Sunday.



Even if you are not religious, it is difficult not to be moved, the atmosphere is so vital and poignant. For some it is a fun filled fiesta time, for others a week of ritual and reflection. Without a doubt, Holy Week in Andalucia is a tradition that is an integral part of the culture and appropriately reflects the spirit of the people.


Year after year, each and every village proudly enjoys the beauty and mystery of "Semana Santa" although there are variances and some towns for instance, will preserve certain traditions more than others. The villages and hamlets generally hold their parades on Thursdays and Fridays, while the large capital cities have week long celebrations and attract thousands of people from far and wide.

http://www.donquijote.org/culture/spain/fiestas/semana-santa.asp


Lorca, nearby, has huge parades, they can last upto 4 hours and are very well known for it's spectacular floats and horse parade with standards. The main parades were last night and tonight.

It is noticable how many Spanish families have come down to Terreros this week on holiday, how many of the shops were closed yesterday and almost all are closed today but will be open tomorrow.

Easter is very important here


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