Las procesiones de Antigua

The processions of Antigua are famous. In the month leading up to Easter they take place each Sunday from a different church. The church saints are carried through town the entire day and well into the night. The procession walks over colourful 'carpets' that are made out of sawmeal or flowers to show respect and give thanks. Thousands of people come to watch this ritual and the whole event culminates on Good Friday with the biggest, most extravagant procession. I was there a few weeks before Easter and was lucky enough to witness a 'smaller' one.

A close-up of a 'carpet' made of colored sawmeal. The intricacy of the designs is incredible.

"Rolling out the red (?) carpet..." The entire street was lined with 'carpets' awaiting the procession.

As you can see, there is a great diversity of colors and styles of these 'carpets'. Each one is unique.

Notice the real fish and potatoes

Mami in front of a 'carpet' made from flowers and palm leaves.

Each 'carpet' outdoes the other.

The float of Jesus carrying the cross. More than 50 boys were carrying the float on their shoulders. It is an honor and a sign of repentance to be a carrier.

The Virgin Mary (carried by women)

Other saints.

Everyone has a specific duty, like these boys who were emersing all of us in incense.

... and already the cleaning crew arrives. All the work for just a short moment of glory.