The town of Yavi held its traditional Doctrinas ceremony on March 31 as part of Holy Week celebrations in the province of Jujuy. The event is known for its deep religious and cultural significance in northern Argentina.
The Doctrinas involve women and girls from various communities who gather each Good Friday to participate in this centuries-old tradition. Dressed in white robes, barefoot, and with their faces covered, they walk through the streets accompanying an image of the Virgin Mary while singing chants and litanies that reflect mourning for Christ’s death.
Some external accounts have referred to participants as “lloronas,” but local communities avoid this term because it does not capture the true meaning of the tradition.
Throughout the day and night, central moments include adoration of the Holy Cross, descent of the Lord from Mount Calvary, and processions through Yavi involving both doctrinas and other community members. The practice continues through generational teaching as older women instruct younger ones to preserve this intangible cultural heritage.
Jujuy has been promoting itself as a destination for cultural and religious tourism during Holy Week by offering experiences tied closely to community identity. Visitors can reach Yavi from San Salvador de Jujuy via National Route 9 to La Quiaca, then Provincial Route 5.
The continuation of these ceremonies highlights efforts to maintain local traditions while attracting tourists interested in authentic regional culture.
