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Semana Santa

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Next week begins the largest religious festival in Guatemala, Semana Santa (Holy Week), which begins on Palm Sunday, March 16th and goes through Easter Sunday, March 23rd.  People visit from around the world during this sacred time, taking part in processionals, re-enactments, and celebrations throughout the country.  One of the biggest celebrations takes place in Anitgua, where dyed sawdust and flowers line the streets and a procession of people dressed in deep purple robes walk in remembrance of Christ's crucifixion.


A picture named M2   A picture named M3
Top: The Romanesque Good Friday Procession
Bottom: Colorful carpet, with offerings of food, inside La Merced during Holy Week.


It is important to note that the majority of offices in Guatemala will be observing this holiday week and both the Embassy in Guatemala and PGN will be closed starting Wednesday afternoon for the remainder of the week.  Bethany Christian Services will also be closed on Good Friday, March 21st.

The above photos were taken from the Discovery Channel's Insight Guide of Guatemala, Belize, and the Yucatan