The Spanish Association of Holy Week in World Heritage Cities and the Board of Penitential Brotherhoods of Alcalá de Henares are organizing this national gathering, scheduled from October 23 to 25, 2026. The congress aims to foster the exchange of experiences and best practices among the brotherhoods and associations of Spanish cities recognized by UNESCO.
Alcalá de Henares, declared a Festival of National Tourist Interest, presents itself as an ideal venue for this event, given its deep historical and university connection to Holy Week. The city seeks to highlight the convergence of social customs, monumental heritage, religious fervor, and artistic richness that define these celebrations.
The congress program includes lectures, round tables, guided tours, and liturgical acts. Notable speakers include Rev. Father D. Marcelino Manzano Vilches, Delegate for Brotherhoods and Cofradías of Seville; Mr. Vicente Pérez Palomar, Councilor for Historical Heritage of Alcalá de Henares; and Mr. Curro Bono, a journalist specializing in cofrade culture.
The main venues for the event will be the Teatro Salón Cervantes for the inauguration, and the Archbishop's Palace, which will host the lectures and meetings. Attendees will enjoy a program that combines reflection on heritage with the experience of cofrade tradition.
The organization has provided a registration form and designated an official travel agency to manage accommodation, facilitating the participation of congress attendees and their companions in this significant cultural and religious event.
