From 4 to 27 of April, the city celebrates this period with a vast religious and cultural programme that begins on April 4th (Friday) with the Conference ‘Christianity, Does it Still Matter?’, at the Cupertino de Miranda Foundation Auditorium, and ends on April 27 (Sunday) with the closing of the Flowered Crosses Exhibition.

On the weekends of 5, 6, 12 and 13, the Sweet Easter event will be held in Praça D. Maria II, an event that aims to unite religion with leisure.

The Confraternity of the Holy Wounds, which organises Holy Week in Famalicão, is talking about a moment ‘that involves not only the parish community, but also the city and municipality of Famalicão’, says José Pedro Sousa, the Confraternity's judge. ‘Famalicão has become a must-visit not only for those who want to experience the Solemnities of Holy Week, but also for those who want to savour a Sweet Easter,’ he adds.

The Archpriest of Famalicão, Father Francisco Carreira, emphasises the religious nature of Holy Week, but also the importance of living this moment in community. ‘Holy Week is the culmination of faith, family and community and, for this reason, it will truly be the Biggest Week when lived according to these three fundamental components,’ he says.

The Archpriest of Famalicão, Father Francisco Carreira, emphasises the religious nature of Holy Week, but also the importance of living this moment in community. ‘Holy Week is the culmination of faith, family and community and, for this reason, it will truly be the Biggest Week when lived according to these three fundamental components,’ he said.

The celebrations will kick off with the third edition of the Walk for Religious and Historical Heritage. On Saturday 12th, the Praça-Mercado Municipal will host the ‘Aunt Cátia's Kitchen’ showcooking programme, starting at 16h00.

On Palm Sunday, the 13th, the Blessing and Procession of the Branches will take place in Praça 9 de Abril, followed by the Eucharist of the Passion in the New Parish Church.

On the 17th, the highlight is the ‘Ecce Homo’ procession from the Old Parish Church at 21.30. On Good Friday, the 18th, note the re-enactment of the Trial of Jesus, in Praça 9 de Abril, and the Procession of the Burial of the Lord to follow, with the usual route starting in Rua de Santo António. On Saturday 19th, the Easter Vigil departs from the New Parish Church at 21h00.

On Easter Sunday, the celebration of the Solemn Eucharist will take place, as usual, in the New Parish Church.

Meanwhile, until 21 April, Praça 9 de Abril is hosting the photographic exhibition ‘Faith and Tradition’.

The full programme for Holy Week in Famalicão is available here.