Well, I am not a very religious man in the traditional sense but what the people here to during the week of Easter is just anbelievable.

The town is full of people from all over Guatemala, Central America, in fact from all over the world to see the world famous SEMANA SANTA PROCESSIONS.

Here are some pictures of various processions during the Semana Santa, they actually have almost 10 different processions at day and at night! And each procession can last up to 6 or 7 hours easily.

Starting point in front of a church (of course!)


Lots of incense ("Weihrauch") is really important, sometimes you cant see a thing anymore or breath!


Even the youngest kids get involved:


This is the actual beginning of one of the processions:


Huge wooden structures with with Jesus and Mary figures are carried around town by dozends of men and women (seperatly of course and men first, this is still a catholic thing, don't forget!)





What you see on the street are so-called "Alfombras"

An ALFOMBRA - is a carpet made out of coloured sawdust, flowers, native plants and fruits:


These "alfombras" are being layed out on the street by the local people a few hours before the processions and it seems to be in the pride of the people to make them as elaborate and beautiful as possible:








And then comes the procession!




Followed by the people:


So this is what is left of the Alfombra after the procession:

And they build new ones for the next procession!


But then this week is also a big chance for small businesses buying and selling whatever you want... and a so a great oportunity to take pictures!
Enjoy the STREET LIFE IN ANTIGUA DURING SEMANA SANTA:
























And then it is also a good chance for people watching!