The city of Córdoba will transform into a national and international benchmark for cofrade heritage, religious tourism, and the sacred art industry from October 16th to 18th. This will be marked by the 3rd Cofrade Entrepreneurship Fair, an initiative to be held at the Center for Exhibitions, Fairs, and Conventions, coinciding with the 2nd Cofrade Fair of Spain and Ibero-America.
The Provincial Council of Córdoba, through the Provincial Institute for Economic Development (Iprodeco), supports this event which will bring together brotherhoods and cofradías, artisan workshops, tourism professionals, and institutions. The president of the provincial institution, Salvador Fuentes, stated that the event "highlights what the cofrade world of Córdoba is doing and the prominence the province is gaining in the entire cofrade landscape".
Fuentes emphasized pride in the work accomplished and ongoing within the cofrade sphere, recognizing the "immense social labor" carried out by cofradías year-round, not only during Semana Santa but also in the preservation and restoration of heritage.
The president of the Council highlighted support for talent in craftsmanship, imagery, goldsmithing, and carving, noting that "people have found an opportunity in cofrade art and are working from our towns".
He also mentioned the significance of the province's 113 music bands, which serve as a "link with young people" and are largely supported by the cofradías.
Fuentes described the fair as an "encounter that allows us to showcase a very different Holy Week", valuing cofrade art and associated talent, which contributes to the development of the municipalities.
He indicated that the cofrade world of the province and the capital city of Córdoba is establishing itself as a national and international reference, leading in technology and event organization. "Behind this talent lies the hope for much generational renewal", he added.
Mexico will be the guest country for this edition, with expected participation from representatives of Guatemala. The program will blend commercial exhibitions with cultural and educational activities, professional meetings, artisan demonstrations, and innovation proposals using technologies like artificial intelligence and virtual reality.
