From the sunlit desert of Coachella to the candlelight processions of Spain, our Travel & Tourism series shifts from festival to faith, guiding you through one of the most emotionally stirring and visually powerful cultural events in the world: Semana Santa in Seville.
With Holy Week in full swing from April 13–20, this is the perfect moment to witness Spain’s most iconic Easter tradition — a deeply moving spectacle of music, pageantry, and devotion set against the architectural beauty of Andalusia’s capital.
🇪🇸 A City Transformed by Faith
During Semana Santa, the streets of Seville transform into open-air sanctuaries. Massive processions move slowly through the city, led by hooded penitents (nazarenos) and accompanied by live marching bands, incense, and the rhythmic beat of drums.
Each day, elaborate floats (pasos) emerge from churches, depicting scenes from the Passion of Christ. Carried on the shoulders of local men and guided by candlelight, they move through packed plazas and narrow alleys, as crowds fall into reverent silence — or burst into spontaneous saetas, mournful flamenco-style songs sung from balconies.
Even if you’re not religious, the emotion is infectious. It’s a spiritual, cultural, and artistic experience unlike anything else in Europe.
⛪ What to See, Hear & Feel
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Don’t miss: La Madrugá — the midnight processions leading into Good Friday
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Most iconic floats: From La Macarena, El Gran Poder, and La Esperanza de Triana
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Where to stand: The Carrera Oficial — Seville’s designated processional route
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Pro tip: Dress respectfully and book balconies early if you want the best views
🧭 Beyond the Processions
Make time to explore Seville’s other charms:
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Tour the Alcázar Palace, a Game of Thrones filming site
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Climb the Giralda Tower for sweeping city views
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Sip sangria and enjoy tapas in Santa Cruz after sunset
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Catch a flamenco performance in one of the city’s underground tablaos
✈️ A Journey of Spirit and Story
Semana Santa is more than a religious event — it’s a living tradition passed through generations. It’s solemn, but never somber. Spiritual, but stunningly social. Whether you’re watching from the street or walking quietly among the locals, you become part of the story.
And that’s what this series is all about — finding the journeys that change us.
🧳 Check back every Thursday for a new edition of Jet Set Weekly: Where the World is going — and follow us on social media for more travel inspiration. #GTAWeekly ✈️
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