Semana Santa

The Spanish arrived in Guatemala in 1524, bringing with them the custom of Semana Santa (Holy Week) to the Latin American country's coastlines. Centuries later, the practice continues, with Guatemala presenting one of the most extravagant Holy Week celebrations in the world.

Thousands of people go to the streets to celebrate the spiritual and cultural with lavish floats, carefully crafted carpets, massive religious processions, and bright, extravagant religious displays. Semana Santa combines Spanish history, Catholic religion, and indigenous cultural beliefs to produce possibly Guatemala's most anticipated week of celebration.

Holy Week is the week preceding Easter Sunday, celebrating the crucifixion and resurrection of Jesus Christ, and is marked with street manifestations of faith in the shape of many processions, each with its own float.

Location: Antigua, Guatemala
Time: Holy Week (the week leading up to Easter Sunday)