The 2nd-6th we did not have class for Semana Santa, or Holy Week. The whole city was transformed for this week before Easter. The churches make huge "floats", or pasos, with scenes that depict the last parts of Jesus's life. There is also another float they usually carry with the Virgin Mary with candles and an elegant cape. They are very intricate and detailed. It is sort of like a parade, but more serious. A band plays loud, moving music and there are many nazarenos wear capirotes, the pointed hats and walk along carrying candles or a large cross to symbolize repenting their sins and many in the processionals walk barefoot throught the streets, as well. Someone carries incense. Some children even dress up and walk, too, which is cute; and some of them pass out candy. Some of the processions last 14 hours! Starting Thursday some women wear black veils to represent mourning the death of Jesus. It is all quite expensive, so they do not go out if it is raining, which it did most days. We were lucky enough to see probably seven different pasos throughout the week. Some at night, as well, which was very cool because they rely on the candles. Here is a video of a paso close to our house. We got to see them exit the church, which was very cool. They have to bend down because the paso is too big! There is also a common food eaten during Semana Santa called torrija that we had to try. It is a little bit like french toast but it is made with honey, eggs, and milk or white wine. We learned a lot this week and saw a lot of new, cool things. It was a great thing to experience!
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