Thousands of Catholics and tourists flocked to parishes across Malta and Gozo on Friday to attend Good Friday processions.

As Holy Week draws to a peak tomorrow, the country’s devotion for the holiest period in the liturgical calendar becomes more palpable.

Holy Week, starting with Palm Sunday and ending with Easter Sunday tomorrow, is marked by nationwide solemn events held at various parishes and churches.

Many prayed or watched in hushed silence yesterday as participants of various processions donned Biblical costumes or carried statues displaying the various stages of the Passion of Jesus Christ.

Devotees also made their way to churches to visit various exhibits.

The intricate displays show key episodes from the Holy Bible with most also including statues of Our Lady of Sorrows.

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The processions were marked by a noticeably sombre mood, as many stood in silence watching participants making their way through the streets.

Those not dressed as Biblical figures walked barefoot, a few others were seen crawling on their knees and some in chains carried crosses as the bands played funeral marches.