Zamora, Spain - Best place for Easter

It has been almost a year since I went to Spain with my husband and daughter. We went there to meet up with my mother, step dad and his cousins' family for a two week vacation.

Before we arrived they were telling us that they really wanted to take us to a city called Zamora because they wanted us to experience their Easter processions, which date back to the 13th century and are said to be a must see if you get a chance to be in the country during this time of year. According to plan we arrived into Madrid, spent the night and headed toward Zamora bright and early. It was my first time ever in Spain so I was looking out the window and taking in the landscape, which was lush and green, something that I was looking forward to seeing because at the time we were still living in the desert. Arriving into Zamora was amazing and impressive because of the beauty of its architecture and the fact that this city has existed for hundreds of years.

My family and I enjoyed every minute of being in this beautiful place. Although I only really caught one of the processions due to a small case of jet lag, I was really impressed. There is a certain ominous feeling when you see the the people participating in their costumes because of their head dress and the almost meditative march. These hooded participants come along the route carrying shrines of numerous saints accompanied by choirs intoning some of the most beautiful Gregorian chants. It is an awe inspiring experience, and one worth doing if you ever get the chance. I would like to share with you some pictures I took while we were there. I hope you enjoy them.

 The leaders of the procession

 

 Shrine of Mary Magdalene

 Scale model dramatization of a procession

 Merlu Statue - A symbol of the processions

 Stork nests can be found on almost every roof top and bell tower in the city

Magnificent intertwined trees at the central plaza

Castillo de la Hurraca - Castle of the Magpie 

Hurraca is a term that was used for women of strong/nasty character

 The inside of the castle is used as a sculpture garden

 View from the top of the castle toward the Grand Cathedral of Zamora

Recovered ruins inside the castle walls