Maundy Thursday 2025 in Spain

Maundy Thursday in Spain is a significant day during Holy Week, marking the Last Supper and Jesus' washing of the disciples' feet. It is observed with solemn church services, the Eucharist, and grand religious processions in cities like Seville, Granada, and Valladolid.

Maundy Thursday: A Public Holiday?

Maundy Thursday is a public holiday in many regions of Spain, but not nationwide. It is an official holiday in Andalusia, Castilla-La Mancha, Castilla y León, the Canary Islands, La Rioja, and other autonomous communities, while in places like Catalonia and Valencia, it is a normal working day.

Maundy Thursday

Maundy Thursday, known as Jueves Santo, is one of the most significant days of Holy Week (Semana Santa) in Spain. It commemorates the Last Supper of Jesus Christ with his disciples, where he instituted the Eucharist and washed their feet as a symbol of humility and service. The tradition of observing this day dates back to the early centuries of Christianity, with the Catholic Church reinforcing its importance during medieval times. Over time, Spain developed elaborate Semana Santa processions, with Maundy Thursday marking the beginning of the most solemn days of Holy Week. In many regions, it is a public holiday, allowing people to attend religious events and processions. This day is deeply rooted in Spanish religious and cultural identity, reflecting centuries-old traditions that continue to be preserved and passed down through generations.

Observance on Maundy Thursday in Spain

Maundy Thursday is observed with great devotion across Spain, particularly in cities like Seville, Granada, Málaga, and Valladolid, where Semana Santa processions are most elaborate. Brotherhoods (cofradías) organize processions carrying large religious floats (pasos) depicting scenes from the Last Supper and Christ's Passion. Penitents, dressed in traditional robes and hoods, walk in solemn silence, creating a powerful spiritual atmosphere. Some processions continue late into the night, leading into Good Friday. Many churches hold special Masses, where the washing of the feet ceremony is reenacted, symbolizing humility and service.

Maundy Thursday is also a time for families and communities to come together. Some people take part in religious rituals, while others simply enjoy the holiday by watching processions or gathering for meals. Traditional foods, such as torrijas (sweet fried bread) and seafood dishes, are commonly eaten, as meat is traditionally avoided. The streets are filled with locals and tourists who come to witness the beauty and solemnity of the processions, making it an important cultural event as well.

The significance of Maundy Thursday goes beyond religious practice. It is a day that strengthens Spain's deep connection to its Catholic heritage while also uniting communities through shared traditions. The processions, rich in history and devotion, serve as a reminder of the values of sacrifice, faith, and humility. Whether viewed as a religious observance or a cultural tradition, Maundy Thursday remains essential to Spain's Semana Santa, keeping its history and faith alive for future generations.

Maundy Thursday Observances