Holy Thursday, known as 'Jueves Santo' in Spain, is an important holiday recognized within the entire country, especially in the states of Andalusia, Aragón, Cantabria, Castilla-La Mancha, Extremadura, the Balearic Islands, the Community of Madrid, and the Basque Country. This day commemorates the Last Supper, during which Jesus Christ established the sacrament of Holy Communion prior to his arrest and crucifixion. It falls on the day before Good Friday and is a part of Holy Week, a significant Christian event that culminates in Easter.
In Spain, Holy Thursday is marked by religious processions and traditions. Lavish floats depicting scenes from the passion of Christ and the Virgin Mary are carried through the streets, accompanied by marching bands and hundreds, sometimes thousands, of penitents. The most famous procession, 'La Madrugá' in Seville, attracts thousands of spectators and is nationally televised. Many Spaniards also attend Mass on Holy Thursday, where the ritual washing of the feet takes place, replicating Jesus washing his disciples' feet at the Last Supper.
The holiday is also seen as a day of reflection and preparation for the remaining Holy Week events. It's tradition in some parts of Spain to visit seven churches – one for each of the Seven Sacraments – on Holy Thursday as a form of pilgrimage. Moreover, in many regions, it's a public holiday, meaning the majority of businesses, banks, and stores are closed, and public transport schedules may be limited. Regardless, the vibrant expressions of faith-filled customs make Holy Thursday an integral part of Spanish culture.