The Romería de Los Dolores reunited thousands of faithful and walkers this Saturday in Mancha Blanca, marking one of the island’s most heartfelt and populous celebrations. The pilgrimage to the patron saint of Lanzarote, also revered as the Virgin of the Volcanoes, was held in an atmosphere of fervour, unity, and respect for tradition.
The President of the Cabildo, Oswaldo Betancort, emphasised that “this pilgrimage reflects our collective identity, a path of faith that unites all the towns of the island and reminds us that devotion to the Virgin of Los Dolores is part of our history and our present.”
“I extend my heartfelt gratitude to the people of Lanzarote and La Graciosa, especially those from Tinajo, their Town Hall, the security forces, emergency teams, and volunteers, as their dedication and hospitality are vital in ensuring that the pilgrimage is experienced in a spirit of joy and safety,” Betancort reiterated.
Meanwhile, the Vice President of the Cabildo, María Jesús Tovar, highlighted the importance of keeping Lanzarote’s traditions alive. “The Romería de Los Dolores is a celebration that transcends the religious; it is an intergenerational gathering where culture, folklore, and community spirit are shared. Preserving it is a commitment to our memory and to future generations.”
The traditional pilgrimage also featured, among other dignitaries, the presence of the President of the Canary Islands Government, Fernando Clavijo; the President of the Canary Islands Parliament, Astrid Pérez; the Minister for Universities, Science, Innovation and Culture of the Canary Islands Government, Migdalia Machín; councillors from the Lanzarote Cabildo; and mayors from across the island, who wished to accompany the people of Lanzarote and La Graciosa on this special and significant occasion.
From the Offering to the Romero Dance
The emotional arrival at Mancha Blanca was marked by the traditional offering to the Virgin, a ceremony recalling the historic miracle of 1736, when lava from a volcanic eruption was halted through the intercession of Our Lady of Los Dolores. Amidst music, flowers, and local produce, the pilgrims paid tribute to the patron saint in a festive and joyful atmosphere characterised by devotion.
The day concluded with the much-anticipated Romero Dance, where folk groups from the islands of Gran Canaria and Lanzarote filled the square with music and joy, providing a celebratory finale to one of Lanzarote’s most emblematic events and that of the entire Canary archipelago.
Vanesa Martín, Los Sabandeños, and Rosana
The festivities of Los Dolores will continue this Sunday and Monday, 15 September, with the eagerly awaited concerts by singer-songwriter Vanesa Martín this Sunday at 21:00, and Lanzarote’s own Rosana Arbelo, on Monday at 21:00. Prior to this, at 18:30, Mancha Blanca square will host the performance ‘Balada de Sabanda’ featuring Los Sabandeños, Olga Cerpa, and Mestisay. Finally, the celebrations will conclude with fireworks at 23:30.
