culture
April 4, 2026
They are the 'villains' who bring Holy Week to life in the municipalities of Antioquia
The live representation of Holy Week is perhaps one of the most deep-rooted traditions in Antioquia. In popular neighborhoods and towns, there isn't a church - however humble or small - that hasn't at least once tried to recreate the biblical passages of Christ's passion, death, and resurrection with its neighbors.
TL;DR
- The live reenactment of Holy Week is a significant tradition in Antioquia, Colombia.
- Amagá has maintained this tradition for 108 years, involving various community members.
- The article focuses on the actors portraying the 'villainous' yet essential characters in the Passion story.
- Examples include a journalist as Herod II, a bodyguard as Belibeth, a traffic agent as Pontius Pilate, a university student as Anás, a furniture auxiliary as Malco, a system engineer as Judas, and a housewife as Mary Magdalene.
- These individuals dedicate time to rehearsals and performances, often finding personal connections to their roles.
- Don Eduardo Betancur coordinates over 110 actors and is credited with preserving the tradition against past opposition.
- The original script, over a century old, is a key element of the Amagá reenactments.
- The actors' commitment and the community's passionate reactions highlight the tradition's deep cultural significance.