Holy Week has great meaning for the people of Puerto Rico. It is a time of prayer, fasting and processions in anticipation of the Easter celebration. As in much of Latin America, a large part of the population is Roman Catholic.
Fasting
Though not required, many people choose to fast for Holy Week. Others choose to eat certain foods such as salads and codfish. A special soup called "caldo santo" is often made.
Palm Sunday
Holy Week begins with Palm Sunday. Processions wind through the streets with people carrying palm branches, commemorating Jesus' arrival into Jerusalem.
Stations of the Cross
From Monday to Wednesday, people will go to church to say prayers at the Stations of the Cross. In some towns the Stations are acted out in processions along the city streets.
Maundy Thursday
People head back to church to pray and meditate. One of the long standing traditions is the washing of the feet in church.
Good Friday
Some towns, San Juan in particular, hold processions through town depicting the carrying of the cross and the Crucifixion. This is called the "Tenebrae." A statue of Mary is usually draped in a black mourning cape and carried on a litter.
Easter Celebration
People head to church on Saturday evening to take part in midnight services. Flowers and candles once again adorn the altars and choirs sing joyful songs. People greet each other with "Resucito" meaning He is Risen.