The “Fiestas del Cristo” celebrations take place during the Holy Week. Declared of National Tourist Interest, one of their foremost characteristics is the representation of religious texts, many dating back to the Middle Ages. The parade of religious images is another attraction.
Most celebrations take place in the church of Santa María das Areas (12th century), where there are images of the Santo Cristo (Holy Christ) of Finisterre and of the Cristo de la Barba Dorada (Christ of the Golden Beard) (14th century).
Starting on Palm Sunday, several passages of the Passion of Christ are acted out, highlighting the Resurrection passage on Easter Sunday. The representation called auto sacramental, taking place in the field next to the temple, describes the moment an angel announced Jesus Christ’s resurrection. This one of a kind event is based on a text that is virtually unchanged from the 15th century original text.
After the tolling of bells, the music of the bands, the firing of the rockets and the releasing of doves, comes the dance of Nosa Señora das Areas, or "stick dance", whose origins date back to the 17th century.
The sea festivities
The local religious devotion is also evident in the Fiestas del Carmen in September. Excitement is in the air when the procession gets to the port carrying the image of the Virgin, while the boats sirens sound and the bells chime announcing the maritime procession.
