Holy week in Seville, Semana Santa

Holy week in Seville and in fact Andalusia as a whole is unlike anything iv ever experienced to date. Last year we travelled a lot and saw some incredible places but one of the most unique experiences was right on my doorstep... (rather, a couple of hours drive away)

We rolled into Seville on Thursday evening of holy week and although we visit Seville often (more posts here) I have never seen the city quite like this.
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Seville during the holidays is absolutely buzzing with excitement and anticipation. We really didn't know what to expect, but were pleasantly surprised by the exciting, warm and family orientated atmosphere. The overwhelming feeling of goodwill was intoxicating

The streets are lined with family's dressed in their best passing around tapas. Gentlemen in their finest suits, Ladies all in black, topped off with lace mantillas (A mantilla is a traditional Spanish lace or silk veil or shawl worn over the head and shoulder) and it my life’s ambition to wear one. They are so elegant!

​Even the streets and balcony's are dressed for the occasion!

​You don't have to search for long to find a procession. They are happening all over the city at different locations. You’ll know one is about to happen by the gathering crowds...

From the photos, you'd be forgiven for thinking that its all a bit sinister but I can assure you the vibe is so lovely. The Nazareno's can look somewhat intimidating, but its so funny when one of them brakes character.

Nothing quite prepared us for the first procession we saw. A giant float covered in fresh roses carried by some very strong men to the sound of a live band made the hair on the back of my neck stand to attention. 

Trust me, it was no easy feat navigating such a giant structure through the crowds and small tight roads of Seville. 

And in between the processions, the crowds all pile into the bars for wine and tapas

And when you're done, you'll find the next procession! 

As the evening turns into night the processions become more and more magical and mysterious. I don't think i'll ever forget the memories of late night procession spotting in Seville. Its almost other worldly and I doubt there is an experience that comes close. And I might have even fallen more in love with Spain 

I remember being so amazed that something so deeply cultural and historic was still so alive today. It felt like id stepped into another century. 

Be prepared to stay out all night and not even notice how late it is...

Have you ever experienced Semana santa? 

Belle
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