A dramatic moment. Some weep, others have simply run out of tears. Time seems to stand still ... or it could be that in Huamanga, on that very instant, all notion of time is lost, what takes place in the Plaza de Armas on the evening of Holy Wednesday is all that matters.

The image of the Nazarene Jesus, patron of Huamanga, is surrounded by the images of the Virgin Mary, Saint John and the Veronica. Among the congregation, hearts beat fast; as if striving to get out to rest beside the sacred biers.

Silence enfolds Huamanga at the first encounter between the Nazarene and the Veronica. The bier of the Veronica bends forward to cleanse the blood and sweat from the Christ with a cloth on which the face of the Nazarene will leave its imprint.

Subsequently, the Veronica goes in search of Saint John to Inform him of her meeting with Jesus. Both set out to meet the Virgin Mary. Later, the three images gather together. The biers of Christ and the Veronica bend forward to 'talk'. Emotion is uncontrollable.

On Maundy Thursday, people visit through the 33 churches of Huamanga. There are no processions; it is a day for pilgrimage. On Good Friday, the images of the Lord of the Holy Sepulcher and of the Dolorous Virgin make an appearance. The men bearing the litters dress in black. Women weep over the death of Christ.

On the following day, Easter Eve, the atmosphere of mourning ceases in Huamanga. The town is ready to celebrate. Tolling bells announce the Achuchimay fair. Bonfires are lit, food and refreshments are sold, fireworks light up the sky in brilliant colors. Music adds to the festivities.

Holy Week ends on Easter Sunday. During the morning, the procession of the Resurrected Christ takes place and, in the afternoon, brave 'morochucos' and graceful Amazons compete in spectacular horse races.

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