How does Casa Gangotena celebrate Holy Week in Quito?

Created: April 2, 2019

● 3 minutes read

Written by Kevin Wright

On Good Friday, join us for a special Fanesca Buffet at noon, as part of Casa Gangotena’s traditions and Quiteño customs. Beforehand, guests can watch the purple procession from the Rooftop Terrace, followed by indulging in our renowned fanesca, a historic recipe passed down through generations. It’s more than just a meal; it’s an opportunity to participate in one of Ecuador’s most important traditions. Enjoy your fanesca knowing it’s widely regarded as the best in the city!

What do you do in your city for Easter? Do children hunt for Easter eggs? Is there a long procession or Easter show? Do you enjoy a large family meal? There’s nothing quite as unique as some of Quito’s deeply ingrained Easter traditions that are a combination of indigenous and Catholic beliefs and customs that have slowly evolved throughout the years. Now, Holy Week is one of the most celebrated holidays in Quito with many quirks that are incredibly fascinating to visitors.

Holy Week in Quito — What to expect during Holy Week at Casa Gangotena.

On Good Friday, a religious procession known as Jesus del Gran Poder, or Jesus Almighty, takes place. Beginning in the morning at 10:30 a.m., the procession winds its way around the Historic Center and represents the crucifixion of Jesus. A parade that has been taking place for nearly a century, over 1,000 people don long purple tunics, head cones. and face coverings to represent their humility and anonymity in the faith, and become what is known as cucuruchos. The pain and suffering of Jesus are represented by some carrying the cross and others wearing real crowns of thorns. You have to see it to believe it!

Staying at Casa Gangotena during Holy Week: A Huge Advantage

Due to its location in the very center of Quito’s Old Town, Casa Gangotena is right in the middle of the action. From the Rooftop Terrace or just outside the front doors of the hotel, guests can have front-row views of the famous Jesus del Gran Poder procession, as the thousands of men, women, and children march by in silence in their solemn purple attire and anonymous crowned heads.

Jesús del Gran Poder procession — The procession takes places on the morning of Good Friday.

In addition to the front-row seats, Casa Gangotena has a deeply rooted place in the community, as it has been part of Quito since its very beginnings. Therefore, staying at Casa Gangotena during this time isn’t just staying at a hotel to watch a parade – it’s spending time at a sumptuous family home to enjoy in the festivities and learn more about the importance and background of what the Holy Week means to Ecuador.

Celebrating Holy Week in Quito

During Holy Week, the goal of Casa Gangotena is to encourage its guests to truly delight in the experience of being in Quito at this special time of year. Until April 21, 2019, Casa Gangotena will be serving its special fanesca recipe that has been meticulously prepared and served at the hotel since it opened its doors. Fanesca is a rich traditional Ecuadorian soup that represents the twelve disciples and Jesus through the use of twelve types of grains and fish.

Fanesca de Casa Gangotena — Casa Gangotena’s Fanesca is prepared with traditional methods and ingredients.

On Good Friday, join us for a special Fanesca Buffet at noon, as part of Casa Gangotena’s traditions and Quiteño customs. Beforehand, guests can watch the purple procession from the Rooftop Terrace, followed by indulging in our renowned fanesca, a historic recipe passed down through generations. It’s more than just a meal; it’s an opportunity to participate in one of Ecuador’s most important traditions. Enjoy your fanesca knowing it’s widely regarded as the best in the city!

Cucuruchos during Holy Week’s procession.

Holy Week in Quito is all about remembrance, extravagant processions, and eating deliciously satisfying foods. Casa Gangotena is part of the city’s intricate community, and invites its guests to join in the pomp and ceremony. After all, we aren’t just a hotel – we are family!

Tags: CulturalImmersion, SpecialEvents, Things To Do In Quito

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