Semana Santa on the Costa Blanca is not only a time of impressive processions, but also an opportunity to take a closer look at the places that have characterised these traditions for centuries. Many churches and monasteries in the region are directly linked to the Easter celebrations and are the setting for important ceremonies. Others tell a story through their architecture and patron saints that is closely linked to the themes of Holy Week: suffering, penance, redemption and hope. Our Easter guide for Semana Santa .
From Altea to Orihuela: the most important churches with significance for Holy Week
One example of this is the Iglesia de Nuestra Señora del Consuelo in Altea. With its blue and white domes, it is one of the most famous buildings on the Costa Blanca. The church is dedicated to the Virgin Mary as the „Comforter of the Suffering“ - a symbolism that plays a central role, especially during Holy Week. During Easter, devotions are held here to commemorate the pain of Mary, while processions with artistically carved Passion figures pass through the narrow streets of the old town.
The cathedral of Orihuela, which is dedicated to Christ the Saviour, is even more deeply integrated into the Easter tradition. One of the most impressive processions in the region begins here on Good Friday, when centuries-old figures of saints are carried through the streets.
The Gothic cathedral itself was built on the ruins of a mosque and its ornate altars show that different eras and styles have blended together over the centuries.
Less well known, but no less important, is the monastery of Sant Jeroni de Cotalba in Alfahuir. It was founded by the Hieronymites, an order known for its strict penitential practices. The monastery served the monks as a retreat for fasting and devotion, especially at Easter time.
Today, visitors can see the historic cloister and the Gothic chapel, which was once the scene of intense prayers and Easter liturgies.
Relics, patron saints and pilgrimage sites
Not only through their architecture, but also through their traditional relics and legends, many churches on the Costa Blanca are closely linked to the themes of Holy Week. One particularly impressive example is the Concatedral de San Nicolás de Bari in Alicante. The church is dedicated to St Nicholas of Bari, who is considered the patron saint of the poor. During Holy Week in particular, fundraising campaigns are organised in the cathedral, which refer to the message of mercy and charity.
There is an even more direct link to the Passion of Christ in the Basilica of Santa Faz on the outskirts of Alicante. One of the most famous Christian relics in Spain is kept here: a cloth that is said to show the face of Jesus. Every year, tens of thousands of believers make a pilgrimage to the basilica to take part in the so-called Romería de la Santa Faz - one of the largest religious events in the region.
Jávea is also home to a building with a close connection to the theme of suffering and the veneration of martyrs: the Iglesia-Fortaleza de San Bartolomé. The late Gothic church not only served as a place of worship, but also as a defence fortress against pirate attacks. St Bartholomew, to whom the church is dedicated, is one of the first Christian martyrs and symbolises the sacrifice of faith. During Holy Week, the walls of the fortified church are a silent witness to the solemn processions that commemorate the Passion of Christ.
Insights into traditions and special Easter liturgies
The Basilica of Santa María in Elche is one of the most impressive religious buildings in the region and is not only architecturally significant. The famous „Misteri d'Elx“ takes place here every year - a medieval passion play that is now a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Although the play is only performed in August, rehearsals begin as early as Easter when the actors prepare for their roles.
Many of these churches offer special guided tours and themed exhibitions during Holy Week, focussing on the significance of the Easter liturgy and the historical background to the processions. It is worth checking the programmes of the respective churches before visiting, as many masses and devotions are held at this time in the traditional manner with Gregorian chants and special rituals.
Easter traditions in experience a historic ambience
Whether Gothic cathedral, Baroque basilica or fortified church - many of the sacred buildings on the Costa Blanca tell stories that are closely linked to the themes of Holy Week. While some churches are at the centre of processions, others are the setting for special Easter liturgies or traditional pilgrimages.
Anyone travelling off the beaten tourist track will find places in these churches where centuries-old traditions remain alive.
