Articles
Between Mountains and Traditions: Holy Week, Pamplona 2025

Holy Week in Pamplona is more than just a tradition: it is a living expression of a community’s identity that, every year, transforms its streets into stages for faith, art, and collective memory. From April 13 to 20, 2025, this colonial city in the heart of the Norte de Santander department is steeped in solemnity, reflection, and beauty, bringing to life Pamplona Holy Week, one of the most renowned religious and cultural celebrations in eastern Colombia.
Pamplona: A City Steeped in History
To speak of Holy Week in Pamplona is to speak of centuries of living tradition. From the first missionaries who arrived during the colonial era to the present day, the people of Pamplona have made this week a time of profound spiritual significance, as well as a time for artistic and community expression.


Founded in 1549, Pamplona is a city steeped in history at every turn. Its colonial and republican architecture, cobblestone streets, and strong cultural identity have made it an iconic tourist destination in Colombia, especially during Holy Week. As a bishopric since the 19th century, it has preserved its devout character, reflected in an active liturgical life and the enthusiastic participation of its citizens in the processions.
An event schedule that combines devotion, art, and culture
Children's Holy Week, which this year marks its 34th edition under the theme “Children, Pilgrims of Hope,” kicks off the festivities. Through this event, children learn about faith, hope, and tradition while participating in processions, workshops, and artistic performances.
The schedule for Holy Week 2025 in Pamplona is extensive and carefully organized:
- Friday of Sorrows (April 11): beginning with Solemn Vespers and the traditional Penitential Stations of the Cross to Christ the King, from the Sanctuary of the Lord of Humilladero to the Lookout.
- Saturday of Sorrows (April 12): youth workshops, cultural events, and the play *In His Footsteps* at Águeda Gallardo Square.
- Palm Sunday (April 13): blessing of the palms, procession to Santa Clara Cathedral, and children's activities such as painting and puppet workshops.
- Holy Monday (April 14): Procession of the Fallen Lord, Masses, and the opening of the International Sacred Music Choral Festival.
- Holy Tuesday (April 15): a tribute to the Lord of Humility, featuring Eucharistic celebrations, museum exhibits, and a solemn procession through traditional neighborhoods.
- Holy Wednesday (April 16): a tribute to Jesus of Nazareth, featuring the Children's Procession, solemn Masses, and sacred concerts.
- Maundy Thursday (April 17): Children's Procession of the Last Supper and Visit to the Monuments: the entire city becomes a space for Eucharistic contemplation.
- Good Friday (April 18): Penitential Stations of the Cross for Peace, the moving Unnailing Ceremony, and the Procession of the Holy Sepulcher, accompanied by choirs singing from colonial balconies.
- Holy Saturday (April 19): Procession of the Virgin of Solitude, murals for peace, and the grand Easter Vigil with the blessing of the fire.
- Easter Sunday (April 20): the traditional Carreritas procession of Saint Peter and Saint John, followed by the solemn Easter Mass.

Beyond Faith: A Comprehensive Tourist Experience
While Holy Week in Pamplona has deep spiritual significance, it is also an ideal opportunity to discover the heritage and the cultural and gastronomic richness of this historic city:
- Visit the Museum of Religious Art, located in a colonial mansion.
- Explore the Casa Anzoátegui Museum, which features exhibits on local art, history, and culture.
- Enjoy traditional cuisine: mute santandereano (hearty corn soup), church empanadas, sun-dried beef, and artisanal sweets made by nuns and local communities.
- Enjoy a cup of coffee or hot chocolate near Águeda Gallardo Plaza, the heart of the city's cultural and religious life.
Craft markets offer unique souvenirs: seed rosaries, hand-carved religious figures, traditional textiles, and decorative candles made by local artisans.
Pamplona echoes with sacred music
One of the most cherished parts of this celebration is the International Sacred Music Choral Festival, which will mark its 23rd edition in 2025. Local, national, and international choirs perform concerts at venues such as the Sanctuary of the Lord of Humilladero, the Santa Clara Cathedral, the San Juan de Dios Chapel… and the Hotel Cariongo, which also becomes a space for music and spirituality.
This festival enhances the beauty of the liturgical celebrations and strengthens Pamplona's cultural identity, reinforcing the connection between art, spirituality, and community.

Useful Tips for Visitors
If you're planning a trip to Pamplona, Colombia, during Holy Week, keep the following in mind:
- Book your accommodations in advance: the city attracts many visitors.
- Walk: Many streets in the historic center are closed during the processions.
- Comfortable and modest clothing: especially for entering churches and attending religious events.
- Respect above all: Pamplona observes this week with deep reverence.
- Be careful in the sun: stay hydrated and wear sunscreen.
- Capture memories discreetly: there are magical moments you'll want to preserve.
Stay in the heart of tradition: Hotel Cariongo
Experiencing Holy Week in Pamplona is a transformative experience. And there’s no better place to do it than the Hotel Cariongo, strategically located in the city’s historic center, along the route of many of the most iconic processions.
From our balconies, you can watch the processions go by, feeling like an active part of the celebration without sacrificing comfort or rest. Our hotel is also part of the cultural program, hosting Choral Festival concerts and offering an intimate, warm, and welcoming atmosphere for those seeking a spiritual experience in a serene setting.
This April, experience the tradition firsthand.
Book your stay at Hotel Cariongo and experience Holy Week like never before.




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