Maritime Holy Week

If you are interested in typical Easter traditions, don’t miss Valencia’s Seafaring Holy Week from March 31 to April 9. It is one of the celebrations with the most to offer, and it is right next to the beach, as the old fishing towns of Grau, Cabanyal and Canyamelar celebrate the passion, death and resurrection of Christ. 

Regarded as a Celebration of National Tourism Interest, it ranks second in importance and tradition in the city. It dates back to the 15th century and the customs of the fishermen of the time, and it is one of the most original and authentic Holy Weeks in Spain. 

This celebration is steeped in the particular traditions of this seafaring neighborhood and has its most salient moments in the Holy Thursday procession, with the visit to the sacred monuments; on Good Friday, with the general procession of the Sacred Burial; and Easter Sunday, with the procession of the Resurrection. 

The three neighborhoods where it is celebrated have close ties to the sea and its transformation. One of the most exciting events in on Good Friday, the main day of liturgical acts and processions, as the Brotherhoods of the Most Holy Christ the Savior and the Most Holy Christ the Savior and Protector reach the promenade and commence an emotional pilgrimage on the sand until they reach the shore. While many of its characteristics make it unique, what makes it particularly surprising to visitors is how the figures are taken out of museums or churches and are safeguarded and protected in private homes that open their doors to visitors.