Dating from the 17th century, each of the exquisitely carved religious statues is a work of art in its own right. © Jorge Morales
In time-honoured Andalusian tradition, there's also always time to enjoy the mortal pleasures of good company, food and wine... © Jorge Morales
... and there's always time to share a friendly joke. © Jorge Morales
The heady scent of burning candles, incense, jasmine and orange blossom drift on the evening air. © Jorge Morales
An entire city comes together to experience an age-old spectacle that remains as solemn and joyous as ever. © Jorge Morales
Mounted on majestic flower-strewn 'thrones', the jewel-encrusted images of the Virgin Mary are so heavy it takes as many as 200 'costaleros' to carry them shoulder-high around the narrow cobbled streets of Málaga's historic Old Town. © Jorge Morales
The Spanish Legion also take part, traditionally sailing into Málaga with their own revered statue of Christ. © Jorge Morales
Solemn marching bands, typically featuring musicians with drums and trumpets, have been rehearsing for weeks on end. © Jorge Morales
The dramatic processions take place every evening from Palm Sunday to Easter Sunday... © Jorge Morales
... with the poignant candlelit Virgin of the Sorrows cavalcade weaving its evocative way around the city in the early hours of Good Friday. © Jorge Morales
Despite first appearances, there's nothing sinister about the pointy hats... © Jorge Morales
... known as 'capirotes', and much later adopted by the KKK... © Jorge Morales
... the cone-shaped headgear serves two totally benign purposes... © Jorge Morales
... providing anonymity, while symbolically bringing the wearer closer to heaven. © Jorge Morales
About the photographer: Jorge Morales
Passionate about photography, VIVA’s own ‘photographer in residence’ says he’d still be behind the lens of a camera, even if he were a millionaire… ... (read more)