El Paso (Episode of the Passion of Christ). Benalmádena. Holy Week. Unique Festival
This festival has been declared to be of Tourist Interest by the Provincial Council of Málaga.
Please check with the local Town Hall or Municipal Tourism Office for the festival date before planning any sightseeing activities.
Benalmádena stands on the slopes of the Sierra de Mijas. Its narrow, cobblestone streets are blessed with whitewashed houses and beautiful viewpoints overlooking the sea.
Just like in many other towns in the province, Holy Week is experienced with passion, featuring the re-enactment of “El Paso”. This recreation shows the final days of Jesus Christ's life. The tradition dates back to the beginning of the 20th century, and around one hundred villagers take part in it.
Staged in the El Retamar park, the play presents 35 acts ranging from the sacrifice of Isaac to the sayings of Jesus on the cross. As for the text, it is anonymous and dates from the end of the 19th century.
While this representation resembles others in the province, it is interesting to note that the text is composed of both verse and prose. Also, every scene is introduced by dancing and saetas (sacred songs) performances.
How to get there
Discover more about the province of Malaga
- Discover more about the province of Malaga