Maundy Thursday

Maundy Thursday, known as *Jueves Santo* in Spanish, is a significant religious observance in Uruguay, marking the beginning of the Easter Triduum—the three-day period leading up to Easter Sunday. It commemorates the Last Supper of Jesus Christ with his disciples, as well as the institution of the Eucharist and the washing of the feet, symbolizing humility and service. In Uruguay, a predominantly Catholic country, Maundy Thursday is a public holiday, allowing people to participate in religious services and spend time with family. Many attend Mass, where the washing of the feet ceremony is reenacted, and churches often hold special evening services. The atmosphere is reflective and solemn, as it sets the tone for Good Friday and the remembrance of Christ's crucifixion. While religious traditions are central, some Uruguayans also use the long weekend (which includes Good Friday) for leisure activities, travel, or family gatherings. Overall, Maundy Thursday in Uruguay is a blend of spiritual reflection and cultural observance, deeply rooted in the country's Christian heritage.