The crowd that fervently welcomed the Virgen de las Nieves on August 3rd accompanied her yesterday in her farewell with the same devotion. The 'La llevada' pilgrimage departed at five in the morning from the Basílica de la Virgen del Socorro, following a night vigil for many residents gathered at the temple doors.
With deep emotion, attendees sang 'salves' in honor of the Virgin before her departure. A solemn moment that marked the beginning of the Virgin's transfer to her sanctuary in Hondón de las Nieves, where she will remain until 2028.
The 'llevada' of the Virgin marks the end of nearly a month of festivities, during which over 100 activities have taken place. The program included musical, children's, youth, sporting, and pilgrimage events. Highlights included festivals such as Aspesuena, the Festival Flamenco, Sekarral Rock, and the XII edition of the Festival Internacional de Cine Pequeño.
Sporting activities also saw significant participation, particularly the Virgen de las Nieves- Memoria Paco Sánchez cycling march, the Bajada de Hondón de Aspe, and the 12-hour Petanca (boules) tournament. The four days of Moors and Christians festivities filled the streets with history, color, and music, receiving a warm welcome.
