Santa Cruz festivities observed in Cárcar and through religious tradition

The feast of the Exaltation of the Holy Cross is being observed through both local traditions and historical religious commemorations. In Cárcar, the most solemn day of the festivities featured a procession led by the parish priest, local officials including Mayor Mª Teresa Insausti, and musicians. The event included traditional music, such as the jota, and concluded with religious services and community gatherings.

Historically, the celebration marks the finding of the True Cross, a tradition dating back to 335 AD in Jerusalem with the consecration of basilicas. The history of the relic includes its removal by Persian forces in 614 and its eventual return to Jerusalem in 628 by the Byzantine Emperor Heraclio. The discovery of the cross is traditionally attributed to Saint Helena, mother of Emperor Constantine.