HOLY WEEK: Processions are taking place across Spain

THIS picture shows members of a Catholic brotherhood in Cordoba with a representation of Jesus Christ, a common sight across Spain during Semana Santa which takes place this week.

Semana Santa (Holy Week in English) takes place during the last week of Lent and coincides with Easter.

Spain is famous the world over for its commemorations to mark the Bible story of Jesus Christ’s death and resurrection.

Each town and city is home to several religious brotherhoods who don special costumes to take part in processions held throughout the week. Different brotherhoods wear different coloured robes, or nazarenos, to show which group they are members of.

Processions took place on Palm Sunday and take place today on Holy Thursday, tomorrow on Good Friday and on Easter Sunday. The parades held are specific to the part of The Passion story remembered on that day.

Processions throughout Spain all feature Pasos which are elaborately-decorated floats depicting New Testament figures such as Jesus Christ, the apostles and the Virgin Mary.

The parades take different forms and have distinct tones depending on the region.

Processions in Andalucia have a celebratory atmosphere, particularly in the provinces of Granada, Malaga and Sevilla.

Those in Castilla y Leon, particularly in the provinces of Camora and Valladolid, have a more sombre tone.

The processions are accompanied by marching bands who play religious pieces while marchers parade through the streets.