Easter Week in Astorga

This distinguishing feature of this religious celebration is the contrast between solemnity and the intimate place it holds in the hearts of the local people. The oldest cofradía, or religious association, has been in existence since the 15th century, and is testimony to the age-old tradition of these Easter week commemorations.

The cofradías taking part in the Easter week processions in this town in Castile-León carry on their shoulders a series of religious images of outstanding artistic and traditional value. Two images in particular still survive from the original processions: the image of the Crucified Christ, from 1560 and Christ Flagellated. One of the crowning moments in this Easter week ritual is the ceremony known as the 'Desenclavamiento del Cristo', when the figure of Christ is removed from the cross during the Procession of the Santo Entierro on Good Friday. Other important elements include the musical bands which accompany the images, such as the Municipal Band of Astorga which has taken part in these processions since the 19th century.