The Virgin del Carmen festival was held on Thursday, 16 July 2009. It was an amazing experience that was enjoyed by people of all ages and nationalities. It was celebrated in every town along the Costa Tropical, but there were particularly large celebrations in Torrenueva and La Caleta because the patron saint of these fishing villages is the Virgin del Carmen.
The Virgin del Carmen protects sailors and everyone at sea. The procession began at the local churches where a group of devoted followers slowly proceeded to make through way through the massive crowds of devotees of the Virgin del Carmen. They led her to the port of Motril and finally placed it on a large fishing boat that was decorated. There were more than 20 boats that were surrounding the fishing boat that carried the Virgin del Carmen. Everyone on the boats were beeping their horns and sending off flairs to celebrate the presence of the Virgin Carmen. The large statue of the La Virgin del Carmen was garnished with white flowers and tall torches. It was a beautiful sight, especially at night with the illumination. The people were delighted to catch a glimpse of the statue from the shores of the beach in Motril and Salobreña. The people were chanting, “Viva la Virgin del Carmen! Viva! Viva la Virgin de los Marineros! Viva! Guapa, guapa y guapa¨!
The festival concluded with an impressive firework show. Shortly after, the statue of the Virgin del Carmen was carried back to the local church for safe keeping. This celebration is held annually in mid July. If you missed it this year, stay tuned to the What´s on Guide at CumbreVillas.com so you can be sure to catch it next year. It coincides with the local festival of La Caleta.
