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Colourful Alfombra in the street

The Alfombras of the Guatemala Easter Festivals

The spectacular Easter festivals in Antigua, Guatemala are beyond comparison to anything in the northern hemisphere. One of its most striking aspects are the carpets — or alfombras — that adorn the processional route. Residents along the streets of Antigua begin preparations weeks and even months in advance to create these beautifully intricate offerings. The carpets are painstakingly made by hand. Ranging in designs from biblical scenes to popular soccer [...]

 

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Easter Carpets in Antigua, Guatemala

Easter in Guatemala: The Legendary Carpets of Semana Santa in Antigua, Guatemala

[youtube http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vZEED4iMv8c&w=420&h=315] Guatemala’s Semana Santa — the Easter Festival — in the former colonial capital are beyond comparison to anything in the northern hemisphere. Along cobblestone streets, intricate carpets of colored sawdust are painstakingly laid down. Later, a solemn procession of Roman centurions march over the carpets, carrying an image of Christ on the cross. Music and swinging incense burners accompany the robed cofradia. During these lively days leading up [...]