Semana Santa

The week preceding up to Easter Sunday, known as Semana Santa is one of Colombia's most important holidays and a popular vacation time. Colombia is primarily a Catholic country, therefore many of the country's 18 national holidays are religious holidays. The Semana Santa commemorates Jesus Christ's death and resurrection.

Normally, cities, towns, families, and individuals around Colombia celebrate and commemorate Semana Santa in a variety of ways and with varying degrees of passion. During Semana Santa, Catholics in Colombia participate in ceremonial pilgrimages to churches throughout the city to commemorate Christ's journey to his crucifixion.

During Semana Santa, several of Colombia's smaller villages come alive. For example, the peaceful colonial villages of Popayán and Mompox are transformed into lively religious gatherings. In 2009, the processions of Popayán were added to UNESCO's Intangible Cultural Heritage Lists. Popayán's old central streets are lined with ancient religious images.

Dates : 14 - 20, April