Benidorm may be world-renowned for its golden beaches and vibrant nightlife, but come Easter, the city reveals a quieter, more spiritual side. Each Good Friday, the cobbled streets of Benidorm’s charming Old Town transform into a stage for one of the most solemn and moving events of the year: the Good Friday procession.
As the sun sets and the evening air cools, the town falls into a respectful hush. Locals and holidaymakers gather along the narrow cobbled streets capturing the moment with quiet reverence. From the historic Church of San Jaime and Santa Ana, perched on the hill overlooking the sea, the procession begins — a hauntingly beautiful display of faith and tradition that transcends language and belief.
Life-sized statues depicting scenes from the Passion of Christ are carried on heavy wooden floats by hooded penitents in long robes known as nazarenos. These figures, often members of local brotherhoods (cofradías) that date back generations, move in a slow, deliberate rhythm. Their faces are hidden, symbolizing humility and penitence, while the soft glow of streetlamps and flickering candles cast long shadows that dance on the whitewashed walls.
The deep, mournful notes of brass bands echo through the Old Town, weaving a soundscape that is both somber and powerful. Drumbeats reverberate in your chest; solemn hymns stir something deeper. The scent of incense drifts through the air, mixing with the sea breeze, grounding the ethereal procession in the earthiness of real life.
Children sit atop their parents’ shoulders to get a better view, while elderly residents watch from balconies draped in purple and black fabric, a sign of mourning. Each float tells part of the story — from Christ’s arrest to the crucifixion — with dramatic detail that stirs emotion regardless of one’s faith.
This is not merely a religious event, but a cultural experience that offers a glimpse into the soul of Benidorm beyond the beach. It’s a tradition that blends pageantry with reverence, history with hope. The procession is both a communal act of remembrance and a deeply personal journey for those who walk in it or observe from the sidelines.
And as the last float disappears into the night, leaving only the sound of footsteps, time slows. In a city known for its high energy, Good Friday is a time to pause, reflect, and connect — not just with Benidorm's history, but with its heart.
For those visiting during Semana Santa, this moment of reflection amidst the festive energy of Benidorm is not to be missed. It’s an experience that lingers long after the candles have burned out and the music fades — a reminder that beneath the surface of every city lies a story waiting to be told.
