Festivities of the Sundays in May

These festivities have been declared of Tourist Interest in Andalusia, and are the most solemn of all Priego's May celebrations. The origins of this unique festival date back to the 17th century, and its distinctive features have made it into a major tourist attraction, organised by five local associations from the town.

Every Sunday in the month, the members of the religious associations of la Caridad, Buen Suceso, Soledad, Columna and Nazareno walk in procession around the main streets of the town. This is the conclusion to an intensive programme of events which includes numerous solemn religious functions, concerts by prestigious musical groups, and preachers with compelling sermons.

The May processions are more festive than the traditional processions of Holy Week, and are formed by long rows of women wearing ceremonial black dresses and the typical Spanish mantilla, or lace headscarf. The image, which is decorated with the utmost splendour and set on a luxurious throne, is also accompanied by the members of the associations and the statue-bearers resplendent in their uniforms. The procession is marked by fireworks and music from civil and military bands, who sometimes march in colourful parades to the sound of martial music.

A particular highlight are the altarpieces decked out with lights and flowers, installed during the final tridiium which concludes the week in honour of the members of the religious associations. These unique celebrations which are so characteristic of this town also include the symbolic foot kissing and hand kissing ceremony, and raffles of gifts.