Other data

The preparations begin five weeks before the date, decorating and covering the streets of the route with lanterns, garlands and awnings, so that the Custodia is always kept covered by a canopy. This is done under the supervision of the “pertiguero”, who measures the height at which they are hung to make sure that the are all placed that the regulative height, and the Custodia will pass beneath them.

The day before the procession, in the streets adjoining the route, ancient tapestries, hangings, banners and shawls are hung from walls, balconied and windows. The decorations include 17th century tapestries, used to cover the Cathedral facade. This is the only day they are exhibited outdoors.

The streets are also carpeted with aromatic herbs such as lavender or thyme, which perfume the procession.

How to get there

Road transport

The climax of this celebration is when the processional cortege sets off at around midday to traverse the main streets of Toledo. Ahead of the procession, announcing its arrival, goes the group of giantsrepresenting the different continents and the popular tarasca or monster which carries a small female figure known as Ana Bolena. This monster ceased to appear some years ago, owing to the sorry state it was in.

Following this bizarre group and the sounding off all the bells of Toledo, the procession begins to come out of the Cathedral and pass through the main streets of the city. The incredible Custodia stands out, master work of Enrique de Arfe in 1515.

The cortege is completed by a series of orders, chapters and brotherhoods, flying their standards. Among the most impressive are the Mozarabic horsemen with their blue habits; those of the Corpus Christi, in purple; the white habits of the Santo Sepulcro, or the red of the Infanzones de Illescas.

Dates

Date variable, according to the liturgical calendar.

Area

International Tourist Interest.