Easter week in Medina de Rioseco

This celebration has been held in this village in the province of Valladolid since the 16th century.

Easter Week in Medina de Rioseco is one of the most famous in Spain, thanks both to its age and the merits of its iconography. This expression of religious fervour has been held without interruption since the 16th century. Major works of Castilian religious sculptures are exhibited in the solemn processions, which feature a large number of 'cofradías' or religious associations who join together to carry their images through the streets. Over 2,000 members of these associations take part in the proceedings throughout the whole of Easter Week. Medina de Rioseco also boasts an interesting Easter Week Museum, the first of its type devoted to this theme in the province of Valladolid, which preserves the historic and artistic heritage of this age-old tradition. Easter week is one of the most heartfelt and deep-rooted fiestas celebrated in Spain. Its history and tradition go back many centuries, and commemorate the passion and death of Jesus Christ. The streets of many of Spain's cities, towns and villages are transformed into scenes of religious fervour and devotion, where grief and meditation are combined as Christ's death is relived. Music, art and colour come together in these magical processions –solemn parades in which throngs of people accompany the religious images on their route through the streets.