Holy Week got underway in Cuenca on March 29, drawing hundreds of people to churches across the city for Palm Sunday, one of the most important dates in the Catholic calendar.
From early morning, worshippers gathered at the Cathedral of the Immaculate Conception and other churches to attend Mass and take part in the traditional blessing of palm branches. Many also joined a procession around Calderón Park before the ceremonies, marking the official start of the week’s observances.
A series of religious events is scheduled throughout the week:
- Monday, March 30 and Wednesday, April 1: Evening reflections and spiritual activities at San Francisco Parish and Victoria del Portete Parish, both at 7:00 p.m.
- Tuesday, March 31: Procession of the Steps at 6:00 p.m., beginning on La República Street and ending at the Cathedral
- March 30 to April 1: Confessions available at the Cathedral from 8:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m.
One of the central events took place on Holy Thursday, April 2, with the Chrism Mass at 9:00 a.m., where oils were blessed and clergy renewed their vows. Later that evening, the Last Supper Mass was held at 7:00 p.m., followed by Eucharistic adoration.
Good Friday, April 3, focused on reflection and tradition:
- 10:00 a.m.: Preaching of the Seven Last Words at the Cathedral
- 5:00 p.m.: Celebration of the Passion of the Lord and Adoration of the Cross
- 7:00 p.m.: Stations of the Cross procession through the city center
On Holy Saturday, April 4, the Via Matrix was held at 10:00 a.m., followed by the Easter Vigil at 10:00 p.m., including the lighting of the Paschal Candle.
The week concluded on Easter Sunday, April 5, with Resurrection Masses scheduled throughout the day at the Cathedral.
Holy Week in Cuenca continues to blend religious tradition with strong community participation, drawing both residents and visitors into one of the city’s most significant annual observances.