Thousands of Catholic faithful marked Good Friday across Latin America with vibrant processions and ceremonies recreating the crucifixion of Jesus Christ.

In Antigua, a historic colonial city in southern Guatemala, devotees dressed in traditional purple and white robes walked through cobblestone streets under the morning sun. Many were penitents known as “cucuruchos,” while others carried centuries-old statues of Jesus. The শহর hosts more than a dozen processions during Holy Week, set against dramatic volcanic scenery.

Marcos Bautista, 63, said he has attended the annual observances since infancy. He described the experience as deeply emotional and beyond words.

In Bolivia, President Rodrigo Paz joined Good Friday events in the southern city of Tarija. His participation marked a shift from past leaders, who largely avoided religious ceremonies despite Bolivia’s strong Catholic roots.

In the capital, La Paz, processions featuring hooded penitents and military bands moved through the streets, with participants carrying representations of the Holy Sepulcher. Many welcomed the visible presence of authorities at the events.

Although Bolivia is constitutionally secular, Catholic traditions remain influential. In some households, people observe the day by eating only fish and preparing symbolic dishes representing the apostles, though such customs have declined in recent years amid economic hardship.

In Ecuador, where a large majority identify as Catholic, major cities held processions. In Quito, the “Jesús del Gran Poder” procession drew more than 150,000 people, filling the historic কেন্দ্র with prayers and chants as they accompanied an image of Jesus carrying the cross.

Meanwhile, in neighboring Colombia, thousands climbed Monserrate Hill in Bogotá to attend Mass at the summit basilica. Similar reenactments of the Stations of the Cross were held nationwide.

In Mexico, home to one of the world’s largest Catholic populations, observances included the “Procession of the Chained” in the town of Atlixco. Participants, some wearing chains and cactus spines as acts of penance, walked through the streets in a display of devotion and sacrifice.

Attendee Marcela Ramírez described the event as both solemn and moving, calling it an act of reverence.

While the proportion of Catholics in Latin America has declined in recent years, the religion remains the region’s largest. In countries such as Peru and Argentina, more than 60% of adults still identify as Catholic, according to recent surveys.