politics
March 28, 2026
Hundreds of 'palmeros' descend from Caracas mountain with palms for Palm Sunday
Between 700 and 800 'palmeros' descended this Saturday from Caracas' main hill, called Waraira Repano and known as Ávila, carrying hundreds of tied palms on their shoulders for delivery to churches during Palm Sunday of Holy Week, following a tradition initiated in the 18th century. The 'palmeros' who participated in [...]
TL;DR
- Approximately 700-800 'palmeros' descended from Waraira Repano (Ávila) mountain in Caracas.
- They carried hundreds of tied palms for distribution in churches on Palm Sunday.
- This tradition dates back to the 18th century and has been practiced for over 250 years.
- The event included participants of all ages, with over 300 children trained as 'palmeritos'.
- The 'palmeros' are divided into groups for exploration, pruning, and carrying palms.
- The tradition is seen as an act of gratitude, originating after a yellow fever epidemic in colonial times.
- It was selected by UNESCO in 2019 for its good practices in safeguarding intangible cultural heritage.