Palm Sunday in Mérida

This year we were in Spain during the Holy Week (Semana Santa) and on Palm Sunday we were in Mérida in Extremadura. From Palm Sunday to Easter, there are daily processions. The popular procession known as “la borriquita” (or “little donkey”) leaves from the Santa María Pro Cathedral on Palm Sunday and marks the start of the celebration of Easter Week in Mérida.

Children often make a palm cane during or just before Palm Sunday. The palm branches on the stick refer to Jesus’ entry into Jerusalem.

The penitents (nazarenos) carry large candles or lanterns. With their cloaks, cords and pointed caps (capirote) in the colours of their brotherhood, they look imposing. They stride along in long robes and in their capirote only room is left for holes at eye level

We were standing at the cathedral and had an excellent spot. Thousands of people had gathered, and it was a joy to watch the people and the procession in which many children, but also the elderly, participated. When the holy figures were carried out of the church, everyone applauded loudly. The children in the procession looked peaceful and cheerful and proudly walked in the procession. The procession made a big impression on me.