Travelscope

Guatemala's Semana Santa - Easter Week

Throughout Guatemala, Easter Week (Semana Santa) is celebrated as the most significant and festive season on every religious and social calendar. Joseph travels to Guatemala City, Antiqua and Lago de Atitlan and discovers that while the observance is rich in Roman Catholic ceremony and tradition, at the same time it leaves room for the popular devotion and beliefs of the indigenous Mayan culture. In addition, the communal creation of hundreds of beautiful alfombras -- flower-strewn, multi-colored "carpets" -- that line the streets in front of the religious processions is something to behold. The pomp, color, emotion and devout expression all combine to create an once-in-a-lifetime travel experience.