Tag: history

Semana Santa Marinera: Valencia’s Unique Maritime Holy Week

While many Spanish cities celebrate Semana Santa (Holy Week) with processions and pageantry, Valencia’s version is uniquely rooted in its maritime soul. The neighborhoods of Cabanyal, Canyamelar, and El Grao form the heart of this celebration. Semana Santa processions recreate the passion, death, and resurrection of Jesus Christ. But it is also a time to honor the fishermen and sailors—especially those who have been lost at sea.

A Community-Centered Celebration

Dozens of processions unfold throughout the week. Some are small and intimate—just a few drummers and participants. Others feature grand floats, elaborately costumed biblical characters, and full marching bands. All are organized by religious brotherhoods (cofradías) connected to four historic churches in the maritime neighborhoods:

  • Santa María del Mar
  • Nuestra Señora del Rosario
  • Cristo Redentor–San Rafael
  • Nuestra Señora de los Ángeles

Palm Sunday: Entry into Jerusalem

Holy Week begins with Palm Sunday, commemorating Jesus’s arrival in Jerusalem. Residents dress as biblical figures and gather for the blessing of the palms. Afterward, processions wind through the narrow streets of the maritime neighborhoods.

Holy Thursday: Sacred Images

Also known as Maundy Thursday, this day marks the Last Supper. A unique Procession of the Drums visits all the sacred images used during the week. While many are housed in churches, some are displayed in the homes of brotherhood members, which are opened to the public. It’s a powerful tradition that brings the sacred into the heart of the community.

Good Friday: Procession to the Sea

On Good Friday morning, icons of Christ are carried to the beach amid prayers for those who lost their lives at sea. In the evening, neighborhoods come alive with dramatic processions: hooded penitents, enormous pasos (floats), and Roman centurions. Though the hoods may look ominous, they symbolize penance and mourning. Look closely and you’ll see characters from the Passion story—children as Jesus, Roman guards, even Claudia Procula, Pilate’s wife, recognized by her harp.

Easter Sunday: The Resurrection Parade

Easter Sunday is all joy. Hoods are removed, faces are revealed, and biblical characters parade with flowers, tossing petals to the crowd. The celebration begins the night before, with fireworks at midnight and the curious local tradition of smashing old plates and crockery from balconies.

A uniquely Valencian way to say: death is defeated, and life begins anew.

Experiencing Semana Santa Marinera

Head to one of the four churches in the maritime community. They are the centers of activity during Holy Week. Most processions start early in the morning with another round in the evenings.

More Resources

Photographer Chris Clunn has published a beautiful photo book capturing the spirit of Semana Santa Marinera, complete with explanations of key events. You can find it at La Batisfera, a beloved bookshop in Cabanyal.

For more background, history, and details:

La Cabalgata del Ninot: Public Art and Satire on the Streets of Valencia

The Parade of the Ninots is one of the first major events of the Fallas festival in Valencia—a vibrant carnival of music, public art, and biting satire. The parade playfully mocks politicians, celebrities, and current events, embodying the festival’s irreverent spirit.

What is a Ninot?

In Valenciano, ninot means “doll,” but during Fallas, it takes on a grander meaning. Ninots are elaborate effigies crafted specifically for the festival, often featuring exaggerated caricatures or humorous social commentary. Each neighborhood Falla creates its own set of ninots, reflecting the community’s creativity and perspective. These figures take months—sometimes over a year—to design and build. Yet, despite the enormous effort, most will meet their fiery fate in the festival’s grand finale!

Two Key Events Leading Up to Fallas

As Fallas approaches, two important events highlight the artistry and satire of the ninots:

1. The Ninot Exhibition (Exposición del Ninot)

? City of Arts and Sciences
? Until March 15
? Tickets & Info

Before they are burned, Valencia’s ninots are showcased at the Ninot Exhibition. Visitors can admire these intricate sculptures and vote for their favorite ninot infantil (child-sized figure) and ninot grande (full-sized figure). The winning ninots earn a rare honor—they are spared from the flames and preserved in the Fallas Museum for posterity.

2. The Parade of Ninots (Cabalgata del Ninot)

? A moving spectacle of satire and tradition

Unlike the ninots on display at the exhibition, the ones in the parade take to the streets in a lively, satirical procession. Each neighborhood Falla rides on elaborate floats, often dressed in costume, parodying famous footballers, celebrities, and politicians. Some of these depictions can be particularly sharp or controversial, but that’s all part of the carnival spirit!

Alongside the satire, the parade also showcases the elegance of Fallas traditions. Falleros and Falleras don their spectacular regional attire, while marching bands and dance groups bring an explosion of music and movement to the streets.

? More on the Parade’s History & What to Expect

Experience the Festival of Fallas

The Cabalgata del Ninot is one of Valencia’s most beloved traditions, blending artistry, humor, and community spirit. If you’re in town, don’t miss the chance to vote for your favorite ninot and join the celebrations!