Easter week in Orihuela

This spectacular event features public participation, and a rich artistic heritage thanks to the figures created by sculptors of the stature of Salzillo. This is Easter week in Orihuela, in the province of Alicante. The origins of these celebrations date back to the 16th century.

Highlights among the numerous events that take place include the procession of "El Silencio", which takes place on Good Friday and convenes over 10,000 people. The procession passes through the old town, where the only sounds to be heard are the penitents' footsteps, and the dark night is illuminated by the lanterns of the participants. A chant dating from the 18th century –the "Canto de la Pasión"– dispels the stillness as Christ passes. The procession on the morning of Easter Saturday, known as the "Caballero Cubierto" serves as a complete contrast, and is unique due to the papal bull that declares that only one person can wear a hat inside the church. This is an old tradition that lives on to this day in Orihuela.