Holy Week

Holy Week in Olivento has a unique character stemming from the blend of Portuguese and Castilian traditions, which is reflected in its rich cuisine; in traditions of Portuguese origin such as the arruchão or the panderinha; and in the presence of both more modern brotherhoods, founded in the 20th century, and very ancient ones, such as the Brotherhood of the Holy House of Mercy and the Royal Archconfraternity of the Lord of the Pasos.

Notable processions include Las Banderas, featuring ten banners; La Burriquita, where children take center stage; and the Pasos procession, held on the fifth Sunday of Lent—that is, one week before Palm Sunday. At sunset, the Señor de los Pasos, patron saint of Olivenza, performs a Way of the Cross, passing by the five altars or “pasos” decorated with ceramic tiles located along the streets of Olivenza, marking the beginning of Olivento’s Holy Week.