As I write this the heavens have opened, thunder is rumbling overhead and tonights procession must be in doubt of going ahead. However, this mornings event proceeded as planned, leaving the Iglesia Mayor Parroquial at the top of town at six this morning.
We caught up with the procession in Calle Calvario, led by the Banda de Santa Ana of Olvera, just under five hours into its journey around the streets of Olvera.
Although the sun was shining and temperatures were about 17 degrees C, there was a fresh breeze blowing.
The first ornate and beautifully decorated paso (platform) was supported by sixty men and carried the image of Jesus with the Cross. It was originally carved from cedar in 1940 and restored in 1991.
The second of the three bands accompanying the procession came from Priego de Córdoba, quite a distance from Olvera.
In the strong breeze, it was difficult to keep candles lit.
The second paso carried the image of Our Lady of Sorrows, again supported by sixty men.
The final band in the procession were a group of young musicians from the pueblo of Cuevas del Becerro.
The Nazarenos, in their distinctive robes of purple and white, walk either side of the procession carrying candles, wooden poles and banners and act as guardians, keeping the procession in order. Some walk the route barefoot and with chains on their feet as an act of penance.
Whether you're a believer or not, it's difficult to deny the atmosphere of the event and not to be emotionally moved by the display of devotion, dedication and adoration of all of the participants and the devotees involved.
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