In Spain, the Easter Week has always been special which is celebrated with much solemnity. As in any other parts of the country, the Marbella town also joins this week-long national celebration with a series of religious acts and huge colourful processions to commemorate the death and resurrection of Jesus Christ.

Semana Santa or the Holy Week commemorates the last days of Jesus’ life from his arrival in Jerusalem on Palm Sunday to his resurrection on Easter Sunday. Unlike some catholic nations, here in Spain, one can find more religious light into this traditional festival. Thousands of spectators witness this spectacular event and many even carrying images of Jesus.

Crowds anxiously wait on both sides of the street to catch a glimpse of the candle lights march and larger-than-life figure of Jesus Christ along with bands and costumes on display. In Marbella, not only the locals but also visitors from other countries join the celebration to experience the Semana Santa traditions in the country.

The video footage was taken by Craig Edmonds in the Casco Antiguo (Old Town) of Marbella during Easter (Semana Santa) 2010. The procession is of around 1.5 hours so this is only some parts of it. It’s really a sombre affair with all participants taking it very seriously and the crowd mostly shows their respect by keeping the noise down.

Recently, the Marbella Town Hall has approved a proposal to maintain the image of the Historic Centre by following some aesthetic rules. With some new regulations, the City is intended to protect the great architectural value, which directly affects the image of the city and its economic fabric, as said by govt. spokesman Felix Romero.

As per the new regulation, all those buildings and commercial premises, constructed in recent time, have to undergo some minor modification or change their facades. It is to mention here that earlier there was no such attempt to consider the essential aesthetic aspects to preserve the spirit of this unique area.

The proposal underlines the use of particular colours and elements in the construction of building structure. Following the structure of Andalusian Village, the ordinance promotes extensive use of a range of ocher and indigo soft colour without any metallic or glossy finishes.

In addition, no decorative materials may be used to replace paint finishes in stone, like marble or granite. It also regulates aspects related to the drainage pipes, gutters, balconies and facilities such as air-conditioning, henceforth, not be placed on the facades facing the street but on the cover of buildings and courtyards.

Marbella old quarter or “Casco Antiguo” is famous for numerous historic monuments and ancient structures dating back to 16^th century. Much before its popularity as an exclusive Mediterranean resort town, the Andalucian charm is typically characterized with its historic structures and associated culture.

The ruins of Arab (Moorish) wall, old churches and squares speak volumes about the rich cultural heritage of the city. Whether it’s the Orange Square (or Plaza de los Naranjos), the Chapel of Santiago, the Church of Saint Mary, or simply the narrow winding streets, these together builds the image of the city.

Hence, above all developmental issues, it’s the prerogative of the local administration to maintain the originality of the town by encouraging no more gigantic and unalike construction around these important historical relics.