All across Costa Rica, thousands of worshipers gathered in churches and plazas throughout the whole week to join las procesiones, religious parades that honor the life of Jesus Christ. The queue was a mix of Roman soldiers, robed apostles, winged angels and a mannequin representing the messiah himself.
Founded in Spain and celebrated throughout Latin America, the processions are an essential part of Holy Week. While hordes of Ticos migrate to Pacific and Caribbean beaches for seven straight days of parties, traditional towns stage their own reenactments of the crucifixion.
Traditionally, the crucifixion takes place in the morning, followed by church services, then a mournful promenade at sunset.