El rocio - 10 things to know with detail
- 1. El Rocío is a small town located in the province of Huelva, in the region of Andalusia, in southern Spain.
- 2. The town is best known for its annual pilgrimage, known as the Romería de El Rocío, which takes place in May and attracts around one million pilgrims from all over Spain and beyond.
- 3. The pilgrimage is dedicated to the Virgen del Rocío, a statue of the Virgin Mary that is housed in the town's hermitage. The statue is believed to have miraculous powers and is venerated by Catholics all over Spain.
- 4. The Romería de El Rocío is a colorful and lively event, with pilgrims dressed in traditional Andalusian attire, riding on horseback or in traditional horse-drawn carriages, and singing and dancing their way to the hermitage.
- 5. The pilgrimage culminates in a Mass celebrated in front of the hermitage, followed by a procession of the Virgin Mary through the streets of the town.
- 6. El Rocío is also known for its annual horse fair, which takes place in the week following the pilgrimage. The fair attracts horse enthusiasts from all over Spain who come to buy, sell, and show off their horses.
- 7. The town itself is a picturesque place with whitewashed buildings, cobbled streets, and a central plaza where locals and visitors gather to socialize and enjoy traditional Andalusian cuisine.
- 8. El Rocío is surrounded by the Doñana National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its diverse wildlife, including rare species such as the Iberian lynx and the Spanish imperial eagle.
- 9. The town is also a popular destination for birdwatchers, as the Doñana National Park is a key stopping point for migratory birds traveling between Africa and Europe.
- 10. In addition to the pilgrimage and horse fair, El Rocío is a popular destination for outdoor activities such as hiking, horseback riding, and birdwatching, making it a must-visit destination for nature lovers and cultural enthusiasts alike.