Barcelona’s historic Way of the Blood Stations of the Cross (Viacrucis de la Sangre) proceeds through the Gothic Quarter on Holy Thursday, April 2nd. The traditional procession runs from 21:00 to 23:00. It offers residents and visitors a unique cultural and religious experience.
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The Royal and Illustrious Archconfraternity of the Most Pure Blood of Our Lord Jesus Christ organises this significant event. Participants carry two prominent religious images. These include a three-metre sculpture of the Holy Christ of the Blood. An imposing image of the Virgin of Sorrows also features.
A Centuries-Old Tradition
The Way of the Blood Stations of the Cross boasts a rich history. References to its existence date back to 1570, according to the Ajuntament. Historically, it served as one of the central Holy Week events in the Catalan capital. For much of the 20th century, the Stations of the Cross took place solely within the Santa Maria del Pi church. However, four years ago, the event returned to the streets of the Gothic Quarter, allowing public participation once more.
The procession marks a key moment in the Christian calendar. It commemorates the Passion of Christ. Holy Thursday specifically remembers the Last Supper, where Christ shared his final moments with his apostles. Many congregations across Spain use this evening or early morning to recreate the Stations of the Cross. These depict Jesus’s journey to his burial.
The Procession Route
The Way of the Blood Stations of the Cross begins and concludes in Plaça del Pi. It navigates through the historic Ciutat Vella district. This area is home to numerous ancient buildings and narrow pedestrian streets. The detailed route includes Plaça Sant Josep Oriol, Carrer de la Palla, Carrer dels Banys Nous, and Carrer del Call.
The procession then moves into Plaça Sant Jaume. It passes by the Ajuntament and the Generalitat de Catalunya buildings. Further streets on the itinerary include Carrer del Bisbe, Carrer de la Pietat, Carrer dels Comtes, and Plaça de Sant Iu. It also passes through Pla de la Seu, Carrer de Santa Llúcia, Plaça Nova, Carrer dels Boters, Plaça de Cucurulla, and Carrer del Pi before returning to its starting point.
Holy Thursday in Catalonia
Unlike most of Spain, Holy Thursday remains a working day in Barcelona and Catalonia. The regional calendar designates Easter Monday, April 6th this year, as the official public holiday. Consequently, the majority of other Holy Week processions in Barcelona will take place on Good Friday. This makes the Way of the Blood Stations of the Cross a particularly notable event for Holy Thursday.
During the Way of the Blood Stations of the Cross, participants make 14 stops along the route. At each stop, organisers read biblical passages. These correspond to the 14 Stations of the Passion of Christ. This solemn observance provides a profound spiritual experience for attendees. It also offers a glimpse into Barcelona’s enduring religious traditions for international visitors.
Public Transport Recommendations
The Way of the Blood Stations of the Cross takes place in the pedestrianised city centre. Therefore, public transport offers the best option for spectators. The Metro provides excellent access to the area. Liceu station on Line 3 is the closest stop to the starting point.
Other nearby Metro stations include Catalunya (Lines 1 and 3), Drassanes (Line 3), Urquinaona (Lines 1 and 4), and Jaume I (Line 4). Additionally, Plaça Catalunya offers connections to Rodalies Renfe and Ferrocarrils de la Generalitat de Catalunya (FGC) services. However, ongoing works on La Rambla and Via Laietana may affect bus schedules. The Metro is generally preferable. Travellers should consult transport applications like Moovit for real-time information.
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Originally published by ABC Cataluña. Read original article.
