Holy Week in Antigua, Guatemala

An estimated 1.2 million people watch Holy Week celebrations in Antigua. Here’s why.

Guatemala might seem an unlikely home for the huge Catholic processions that mark Holy Week, but so impressive are they, they often figure alongside Seville and Madrid as the best in the world.

Huge wooden floats are carried through the cobbled streets by robed penitents known as cucuruchos, solemnly marching to the tune of funeral bands. Processions take place at various times of the day, with the dark night adding to the atmosphere.

It’s an amazing sight watching the floats wind through the town, and you should make a point of going if you’re in Guatemala. That said, it’s best to book in advance because accommodations quickly fills up.

Ideally you would book a year in advance, but if you’re lucky you might find some dorm beds where you can rest your head. If you do make it, you can get tourist guides that tell you when and where the processions will pass.

Keep your eye out for the ornate sawdust carpets made by local residents before the processions come by. They’re brightly colored and intricate, and it’s a real sight to see.