Romans in Pereira
The terrifying sight of Roman legions marching through Pereira, tearing the place up during Holy Week in the local religious processions which take part annually at Eastertime in Colombia. However, the processions are but one cultural phenomenon in the city, which is known as the Capital of the Coffee Zone and acts as a launchpad or even base of operations for any outside tourists wanting to explore the enchanting coffee region further.
Easter Processions
The might of the Roman empire marches proudly and menacingly through the city of Pereira, in the coffee zone of Colombia. The drums roll and the eagle standard fronts the legion.
Well, it makes for great pageantry, with many of the local people taking part in a bit of dress-up for the Holy Week processions. Although I'm not all that religious, this is nevertheless entertaining and the Roman legions are a more contextual part of events explaining Jesus' story.
Pereira
Pereira is an interesting city, not huge but neither small, in the Eje Cafetero, Colombia's Coffee Axis in the centre west of the country. The wider rural region of which Pereira is an unofficial capital is a wondrous mountain area about a mile above sea level and between the peaks and plantations of fruit are colourful wee villages normally centred around a central town square.
The square will invariably have a statue or bust of the Liberator, the swashbuckling South American hero Simón Bolivar, though you will find a few other historical characters commemorated, including an Irish fellow by the name of O'Byrne in the village of Cartago.
Alternative Horizons
All in all, Eastertime in Colombia, especially here in the midwest of the country is a fun time and well worth a visit from the more adventurous travellers among us.
Colombia is a hidden gem and the inner regions of the country are really fascinating and alternative places for people who want to get off the beaten track.
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Easter