This year's Holy Week, I went back home and spent it with my family! Typically, during Easter, we have a big get-together with the whole extended family and reconnect over brunch. My family was curious about how Holy Week is celebrated in Colombia and how it compares to other Latin American countries, such as Mexico or Guatemala. Since I've been to all three places, I explained to them the differences I've observed while eating some delicious tacos de barbacoa that my uncle made.
I first explained that Colombia, like all Latin countries, is predominantly Catholic, which means most traditions are similar to those in Mexico. Processions and masses are common, with some special observances done depending on the community or location. For example, in Colombia, the biggest festival is held in Popayán. Parades fill the streets all over the city with statues of saints and scenes from the bible, which are carried by cargueros who hold them on a wooden platform on their shoulders. It was declared a Masterpiece of the Oral and Intangible Heritage of Humanity by UNESCO.
In Bogotá, a tradition is to climb Mount Monserrate on Easter Sunday. Most use the train or gondola, but some devotees hike it on their hands and knees to show penance and gratitude.
