An exceptional security operation for Holy Week in Madrid
Holy Week in Madrid promises to be a safe and well-organised event thanks to an impressive deployment of 1,500 police officers and 250 Samur-Civil Protection medics. This special operation, announced by Deputy Mayor Inmaculada Sanz, will begin on Friday of Sorrows and will extend until Easter Sunday, April 5.
The operation will be particularly concentrated in the Centro district, where most of the processions and religious events will take place. It is anticipated that weekends and holidays will see a significant increase in the influx of people, prompting authorities to implement additional measures to ensure safety.
Officers will be distributed among the North and South Central Police Stations, including both uniformed personnel and those operating undercover. Additionally, they will have aerial support through drones and units from the Cavalry Squadron. Their main mission will be to safeguard public safety in key historical, cultural, and commercial areas.
Should issues arise affecting pedestrian mobility, police officials will consider implementing filters or controls on certain streets. This could include restrictions on pedestrian traffic or even temporary closures if necessary. There will also be coordination with Metro and Renfe services to temporarily suspend operations if a critical situation arises.
Samur-Civil Protection will also play a crucial role during this religious festival. A total of 23 ambulances equipped for both basic and advanced life support will be deployed, along with 17 specialised units for prevention and response. The busiest days, especially Holy Thursday and Good Friday, will see significant reinforcement in strategic locations such as Puerta del Sol.
Continuing its popularity as a processional hub, this year Puerta del Sol will feature a designated area offering 600 seats to the attending public—double that of last year—with guaranteed accessibility for people with reduced mobility.
From next Sunday until April 4, there will be restrictions on heavy traffic in several neighbourhoods of the Centro district. This measure aims to prevent dangerous overcrowding during religious celebrations. Only certain specific vehicles will be allowed to circulate in these restricted areas.
Not only will the Centro be the focus of attention; other areas such as Puente de Vallecas, Salamanca, Barajas, among other districts, will also receive logistical support to ensure a calm and orderly celebration throughout Holy Week.
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