Spain’s Holy Week 2020 in Toledo
- When: 5th - 12th April 2020
- Where: Toledo, Spain
- Website: turismocastillalamancha.es
One of the main attractions in Toledo, Spain is Holy Week leading up to Easter, which in 2020 is from Sunday 5th April - Sunday 12th April 2020. In Toledo they traditionally celebrate Holy week, which in Spain is called Semana Santa, with sober processions that parade through the narrow and beautiful streets of the city. Toledo is one of the most charming and historical cities in Spain, which helps to create a truly special atmosphere during the Easter holidays.
History of Toledo, Spain
The entire city of Toledo, just an hour from the capital of Madrid, has been declared a World Heritage Site for being a source of culture and history. Located in the autonomous community of Castile-La Mancha and capital of the province that bears its name, it is known worldwide as the “city of three cultures” because it was home to Christians, Jews and Muslims, who all helped to make Toledo what it is today.
The historical town centre, on the banks of the Tagus River, and its different neighbourhoods tell the story of the town through its buildings and monuments. Attractions of interest to tourists include the Alcázar, the Castle of San Servando, the walls, bridges and ancient gates. Thanks to all this, Toledo is a considered to be a city of Cultural Interest.
How is Semana Santa celebrated in Toledo?
Semana Santa in Toledo is notable for the sobriety and tradition of its Easter processions. The events of Maundy Thursday (9th April 2020) and Good Friday (10th April 2020) stand out, when the streets of Toledo host parades with religious images carried on the shoulders of local volunteers in traditional Spanish Easter clothes. These are typical Spanish Easter activities all over the Iberian Peninsula, but what makes Toledo different is that the Easter parade floats are carried mostly at night, giving the event a special atmosphere to go hand in hand with all the symbolism that this city has.
Declared a Festival of International Tourist Interest, Easter in Toledo is an unmissable event for all those who want to get to know in depth the secrets and mysteries of one of Spain’s most historical cities, where the urban environment combines with the procession of fraternities and brotherhoods.
The programme of processions during the week is extensive, but the most impressive processions are those of the Penitent Knights of Christ the Redeemer, which takes place in the middle of the night on Holy Wednesday; the Cristo de la Vega, which takes place at midnight on Good Friday; and the Christ of the Good Death on Holy Saturday.
Even better, the weather in Toledo, Spain in April tends to be quite good, with temperatures often reaching highs 22ºC. Whatever the weather, nothing should keep you away from visiting the incredible, historical Easter parades in this typical Spanish town.