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Madrid Dressed in Tradition: The Holy Thursday Processions Dazzle in the Capital

The Holy Thursday processions transform Madrid into a cultural and spiritual epicentre full of traditions.

Rodrigo PeláezRodrigo Peláez· · 3 min read

A Holy Thursday Full of Fervour and Devotion

The Holy Week in Madrid reaches its climax this Holy Thursday, with an impressive display of processions that traverse the streets of the capital. Four emblematic brotherhoods, each with its rich history and traditions, offer citizens and visitors a unique experience filled with spirituality and culture.

Starting at 17:00, the Brotherhood of Jesus Nazareno El Pobre begins its route from the church of San Pedro el Viejo. This procession stands out for its nazarenos dressed in purple robes, who accompany the images of Jesus Nazareno El Pobre, an 18th-century work, and Maria Santísima del Dulce Nombre en su Soledad. This year, as a novelty, a children's banner will be presented that promises to capture the attention of the little ones.

At 18:30, another great tradition comes to life with the departure of the Brotherhood of Gran Poder, which sets off from the Collegiate Church of Our Lady of Good Counsel. The nazarenos wear elegant black robes while carrying the images of Our Father Jesus del Gran Poder and Maria Santísima de la Esperanza Macarena. Their route includes significant stops where homage is paid to this revered tradition.

From 18:30, the procession of the Divine Captive will also take place, which this year features a special collaboration. For the first time, Our Lady of Hope will march alongside the Divine Captive, thanks to an agreement between two sister brotherhoods. This gesture symbolizes not only unity among religious communities but also a closeness to the faithful in difficult times.

The nazarenos will wear white robes adorned with red details as they traverse the Salamanca neighbourhood. The scheduled penitential station at the Hospital de la Princesa is another highlighted aspect, as it seeks to bring comfort to the sick on this significant date.

No less important is the procession organised by the Brotherhood of Our Father Jesus Nazareno and Maria Santísima de la Soledad from Villaverde. Starting at 19:00, the brothers will carry images deeply rooted in this community. Dressed in purple robes and white cinctures, they will traverse various streets before returning to their parish after a route filled with popular fervour.

As the day progresses, Madrid becomes a vibrant stage where tradition and history converge. The streets are filled not only with the solemn sound of the processional marches but also with the community spirit that characterises these festivities. Each step taken by the nazarenos is a palpable reminder of the profound religious significance that accompanies each sacred image.

Rodrigo Peláez

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Rodrigo Peláez