Where do the pasos come from?
Bloodlines from the Andalusian, the Barb, and the Jennet (now extinct) were combined to form what we now know as the Peruvian Paso. The Peruvian Paso, coming from the Spanish word paso for “step,” is often confused with another horse of Spanish origin, the Paso Fino.
What do the Nazarenos do?
The “Nazarenos” are the members of the “cofradías” who participate in the processions. They are also known as the “penitentes” (penitent ones). These are the people you see who are dressed in robes and capes, wearing cone shaped head gear that makes it impossible to know who is behind their disguises.
Why do the Nazarenos wear belts?
Stock Photo – The Holy week participants Nazarenos wear rope belts with three knots symbolizing three religious vows – poverty, chastity and obedience during the Easter celebration in Malaga, Spain, 2 April 2007.
Why do costaleros take the steps?
Hidden behind a curtain beneath the float, only their shoes visible, the costaleros take slow steps (hence the swaying, designed to make the statue appear to move on its own).
Who are Los Costaleros What is their job?
Los Costaleros They are the men that carry la cruz and la virgen all around the city.
What is a pasos Holy Week?
A Paso (Spanish: “Episode of the Passion of Christ”) is an elaborate float made for religious processions. They are carried by porters on staves, like a litter or sedan chair, and are usually followed or escorted by a band.
Why do penitents wear hoods?
The hats, which remind some of Klu Klux Klan costumes, are said to date back to the Spanish Inquisition when prisoners were made to wear them in public as a form of humiliation. The faces are covered so as to allow the penitent sinners to hide their identities.
How many costaleros carry a paso?
It takes 40 costaleros (men who carry the pasos) to carry one paso and many of them are hidden beneath the structure and fabric. The costaleros carry the weight of the paso on their shoulders and neck, with a special cushion, called un costal, to help bear the weight.
What do penitentes carry?
Penitente – A member of the procesion who repents of his sins carrying a cross over his shoulder. Penitentes are easily recognizable because they are dressed like nazarenos but without the capirote. Some can carry up to four crosses and lots walk barefoot.
What is a cofradía Semana Santa?
Glossary of Holy Week terms Cofradías – Catholic groups dedicated to religious training, worship and charity that focus on penitence and show their penitence publicly during Semana Santa processions as they carry floats through the streets. These participants are traditionally supposed to be doing public penance.
Who are Los costaleros What is their job?
Who celebrates Semana Santa?
Semana Santa, also known as Holy Week, which culminates in Easter, is an important Catholic holiday that is celebrated worldwide, especially in predominantly Catholic countries such as El Salvador, Spain, Colombia, Mexico, and more. Semana Santa takes place over the Thursday, Friday, and Saturday before Easter.
Who is The capataz of the costaleros in Seville?
Because the costaleros are totally hidden and packed, the capataz (overseer), located on the outside, guides the team by voice, and/or through a ceremonial hammer – el llamador (caller) attached to the paso.
How much does a costalero weigh per Paso?
This is usually a task performed by men as the pasos often weigh over 2,000 kg (4,400 lbs) and it takes many months of practice before the big day. On average there are 40 costaleros per paso with each one supporting a weight of around 50 kg (110 lbs) for approximately 8 hours.
Why do costaleros carry the Paso on their shoulders?
They carry the paso supporting the beams upon their shoulders and necks. And they also lift, move and lower it. The costaleros consider a once in a lifetime honor carrying the paso as it’s a sign of devotion and penance.
Who are the costaleros and pasos of Semana Santa?
The palio is supported by six poles ( varales) on each side. The costaleros are the most important members of the processions, and without them Semana Santa in Seville would never take place. They carry the paso supporting the beams upon their shoulders and necks. And they also lift, move and lower it.