Actor Antonio Banderas participated in Palm Sunday religious processions in his Spanish hometown of Malaga, officially launching Holy Week celebrations across the country. The 65-year-old star has been taking part in these traditional Catholic ceremonies for over two decades.
MALAGA, Spain — Hollywood actor Antonio Banderas participated in Palm Sunday religious ceremonies in his native Spain, helping to launch the country’s traditional Holy Week observances that draw on centuries of Catholic heritage.
Following a hymn performance at Saint John’s church, the 65-year-old Banderas wore customary penitent clothing — a bright beige robe with dark green accents — as he signaled the start of the procession carrying the Virgin statue representing his religious brotherhood, known as Tears and Favors.
The internationally recognized star, famous for roles in Spanish cinema and Hollywood films, has maintained his participation in Malaga’s religious processions for over two decades in his southern Spanish birthplace.
“I always see the traditions of my homeland, our identity, and the way we experience our celebrations, and I’m delighted to be here,” Banderas told news media. “For me, Holy Week is a time of tears and favors that bring about very beautiful things.”
Banderas’ religious group was among nine brotherhoods that processed through Malaga’s historic district streets during the sunny Sunday afternoon, with ceremonies continuing into evening hours.
The Palm Sunday observance represents the opening major event of Holy Week, commemorating Jesus Christ’s celebrated arrival in Jerusalem before his crucifixion, which Christians remember on Good Friday, and his resurrection celebrated on Easter Sunday.
The Andalusian regions surrounding Seville and Malaga present some of Spain’s most elaborate and well-attended processions, showcasing ornately decorated religious floats and hundreds of robed participants, though similar religious observances occur nationwide.
In the mountain community of Cabra near Cordoba, believers carried customary palm fronds while 12 participants depicted Christ’s apostles using masks crafted to resemble their faces.
Throughout the coming week, thousands of penitents will transport and escort historic, revered statues of Jesus and the Virgin Mary on large ceremonial platforms, while hundreds of thousands of local residents and visitors line the streets to witness the processions, joining in religious songs, tossing flower petals, or maintaining respectful silence.