Discovering Colombia’s Easter Traditions from Bogota to Mompox

Easter festivities in Colombia started on March 26, in line with Palm Sunday events. The country’s rules make both Thursday and Good Friday public holidays, giving Colombian workers a break from their jobs.

The itinerary in Bogota features trips to the Monserrate Sanctuary, offering experiences centered on the Holy Eucharist, Washing of Feet, and the Last Supper. For art enthusiasts, the Colon Theater presents a chance to engage with cultural performances. The Gold Museum provides insight into ancient indigenous cultures. Additionally, visitors can explore up to 400 churches, with those in the Historic Center standing out as the city’s most ancient and visually striking.

Medellin welcomes tourists to the Metropolitan Cathedral, the world’s biggest brick cathedral, recognized as a National Cultural Site. Additional spiritual landmarks feature the Sanctuary of the Mystical Rose and the Mother Laura Ethnographic Museum, situated in the birthplace and home of Colombia’s first and only saint.

Good Friday processions, especially in Popayan, rank among Colombia’s most significant and longstanding traditions. These observances take place in most municipalities and cities nationwide, drawing attention to their historical and cultural importance.

Mompox, an unmissable destination during Easter

The history of Easter celebrations in Mompox dates back to 1564, when they were held for the first time, with a strong Sevillian influence. Later, they became one of the main tourist attractions in this magical corner of the department of Bolívar.

Unique events take place on Holy Thursday and Good Friday each year, large ceremonial processions in which the people of the town march around its seven churches. Mompox, the first town to proclaim independence from Spain, preserves a historical narrative in its beautiful colonial structures, which earned it the designation of a World Heritage Site by UNESCO.

Mompox offers beautiful and traditional religious temples, as well as recreational and historical sites such as the Cultural Museum of Religious Art, The Pozo of the Noria, The Portales of the Marquesa, The Liberty Square, and The Botanical Garden. Mompox is also renowned for its craftsmanship in filigree and the production of gold and silver jewelry.

Colombians have various traditions at Easter, including eating fish to avoid eating red meat and participating in vigils and fasting. Throughout the country, millions of believers celebrate Holy Week with deep-rooted beliefs, some being more attached to religious traditions than others. However, every believer can find hundreds of religious events taking place across the nation.