The Semana Santa Marinera of Valencia, tradition and devotion on the shores of the Mediterranean, is one of the most deeply rooted festivities in Spanish culture and in the region of the Valencian Community. This emotive festivity combines religiosity, tradition and a marked maritime character, which makes it a unique and very particular event. It will be held from March 22 to 31, 2024 on the shores of the Grao, Canyamelar and Cabanyal districts. The events can be extended for fifteen days, offering numerous events. These fishing and seafaring neighborhoods are involved in the preparation and realization of this festivity.
What makes this Holy Week special is its close relationship with the sea, since the fishermen and sailors of the Grao, Canyamelar and Cabanyal neighborhoods star in part of the processions. One of the most emblematic images is that of the Cristo del Grao, which is carried in procession through the streets until it reaches the beach, where it is embarked in a traditional fishing boat and travels the waters accompanied by a multitude of boats and small craft. One of the main characteristics of the Semana Santa Marinera in Valencia is the sobriety of some processions, where devotion and recollection are prioritized. The floats that are carried are authentic works of art. These floats are carried on the shoulders of the brothers, dressed in tunics and capirotes, who walk through the narrow and steep streets to the sound of processional marches. On Easter Sunday, on the other hand, simplicity is forgotten and it is transformed into a party with music, color and noise.
The Semana Santa Marinera of Valencia also stands out for its large number of events and activities that are scheduled throughout the week. Such as La Nit de les Capelles where the houses where the images are during the night of Maundy Thursday are visited. In addition, Valencian gastronomy acquires prominence on these dates, with the tasting of typical dishes such as fideuá marinera or the traditional “monas”, typical sweets of these dates. On Saturday there are no processions. They are hours of tranquility and rest waiting for midnight, when the Resurrection resounds throughout the Maritime. Then the fireworks are launched accompanied by water and earthenware. That represents the substitution of the old for the new, of darkness for light, of evil for good.
In short, the Semana Santa Marinera of Valencia is a festival full of traditions and devotion that commemorates the passion, death and resurrection of Christ in a maritime context. This unique and special celebration has preserved over the years its essence and authenticity, becoming an event of unique cultural and religious interest for both Valencians and visitors who have the opportunity to witness it. For more information, see the program here or contact us.
