The traditions of Antigua Guatemala are passed on to a new generation that would keep them alive. The elaboration of processional carpets is one such tradition that still very prominent with the younger generation.
Here’s your illustrated Spanish word of the day: Alfombra procesional for processional carpet. One of the aspects I really enjoy of the Lent season in Antigua Guatemala is the processional carpets with their aromas, colours, textures and creative designs. I enjoy seeing entires families and blocks of neighbours participating in the creating of the alfombras … Read more
One thing I know for sure, there will be Holy Week celebrations in Antigua Guatemala for a long while. These traditions are being perpetuated with the very young and pride and identity of these customs are being held very high. The picture above of students of tourism was taken at the end of their creation … Read more
Lent is also the time for shrines, carpets, vigils and processions. Out of nowhere any of these things can appear anywhere and at anytime as was the case for this altar and carpet that in less than 15 minutes showed up right across from the office because in 20 minutes there was going to be … Read more
The making of carpets from sawdust, pine-needles, flowers, vegetables, et cetera is a community-forming tradition. People get together by block or near-by neighbors to create the carpets on which the processions will walk through. Sometimes the making of the carpets is done at night, all night so they are ready for next day’s procession. The … Read more
The processional carpets are among the most creative and colorful elements of the Holy Week in La Antigua Guatemala. As I’ve mentioned before, the making of carpets from sawdust, pine-needles, flowers, vegetables is a community-forming tradition. People get together by block or near-by neighbors to create the carpets on which the processions will pass by. … Read more