In yesterday's procession the icon depicted was Jesus after being captured by the Romans. The procession left the Plaza del Socorro at 8.30 in the evening to a hushed audience.The "Paso" (platform) was carried by thirty six men, twenty at the front and sixteen at the back, which give an idea of the weight involved.
At the head of the procession and lining the streets are the "Nazarenos", who are the candle bearers throughout the event.
The exit from the church leads into Calle Salada, a very steep street. This picture perhaps give you a feel of the swaying motion that the "Cargadores" (shoulder bearer's) have as they very slowly move along the route.
Crowds lined the route of the procession, some throwing petals at the icon, others placing bouquet's of flowers.
At the rear of the Paso are the devotees who, as will many of the onlookers, stay with the procession from start to finish. Amongst them I notice Anna, our neighbour from across the street.
The time is now 12.30 am, four hours after the start, and the procession has now reached Calle Llana, the main street leading to the Plaza de la Iglesia which is the final destination.
The picture right shows the Nazarenos at the head of the procession.
Every twenty metres or so, a bell is sounded and the carriers stop for a well deserved five minute break. Each stop was met with applause from the onlookers and again when they restarted.Bear in mind that they have been carrying the Paso now for about four and a half hours.
Throughout the event, the Olvera Town Band have been following the Paso, performing a sombre repertoire of music, mainly to the sound of drums, trumpets and clarinets.
It's now one in the morning and the procession starts the steep climb to it's final destination at the Plaza de la Iglesias.
Amazingly, this was completed with no pauses for rest.
Finally, the Nazarenos lead the procession into the square to huge applause from the waiting audience.
It was a very moving moment after an incredible effort by all, five hours after starting out.
You just had to be there !!
Linked posts:
No comments:
Post a Comment