Semana Santa Mompos

Location:
Mompos, Bolivar
Mompós, Colombia

Culture and Arts

By Richard McColl

For one of the most unforgettable Semana Santa experiences in Colombia, head straight to Mompos! Not only are the parades austere in their religious significance and the floats ornate, but the willingness of the people to be involved and pitch in is legendary. Nazarene pilgrims dressed in heavy smocks sweat uncontrollably in the heat as they jostle for favorable positions underneath the weighty religious artifacts. Whole familes parade to the old cemetery to light candles and place them on the tombs of their deceased relatives and friends while a band plays a somber tune. Later in the week, budding artists decorate the streets in chalk and sawdust etchings of religious figures and events only to later see them destroyed underfoot by yet another procession. Coming to Mompos at any time of year is special but it is doubly so during this period, when one has the opportunity to see the seven immaculate churches in all their pomp and majesty and to observe one of Colombia's most well preserved sites at its finest.

Getting There
To get to Mompos

From the Caribbean coast (Cartagena, Barranquilla and Santa Marta) there are direct buses that leave in the early morning. Get to the Bus Terminal early. If you miss the direct bus then aim to get to Magangue and catch a motorised canoe f

Travel Tips: Book you accommodation in advance and if there is any possibilty book your bus tickets in advance as well. Mompos really only has one high season and everything books up.

Travel Skills: None