The Romería de Los Dolores once again brought together thousands of devotees and walkers this Saturday in Mancha Blanca, as one of the island’s most heartfelt and well-attended celebrations. The pilgrimage to the patroness of Lanzarote, also revered as the Virgen de los Volcanes, was experienced in an atmosphere of fervour, unity, and respect for tradition.
Collective Identity and Tradition
The president of the Cabildo, Oswaldo Betancort, emphasised that “this romería reflects our collective identity, a path of faith that unites all the towns of the island and reminds us that devotion to the Virgen de Los Dolores is part of our history and present.” Betancort also highlighted the efforts of those who made the successful execution of this festive day possible, which exemplified civility, coexistence, and shared identity, reflecting the pride of belonging to our community and the tradition that unites us.
“My sincerest gratitude to the people of Lanzarote and La Graciosa, particularly those from Tinajo, their Town Hall, the security forces, emergency teams, and volunteers, for their dedication and hospitality, which are essential to ensure that the romería is enjoyed in an atmosphere of joy and safety,” Betancort remarked.
Preserving Cultural Heritage
Vice President of the Cabildo, María Jesús Tovar, underscored the importance of keeping Lanzarote’s traditions alive. “The romería of Los Dolores is a celebration that transcends the religious; it is an intergenerational gathering where culture, folklore, and a sense of community are shared. Preserving it is a commitment to our memory and future generations.”
Notable Attendees
The traditional romería also featured the presence of several dignitaries, including the President of the Canary Islands Government, Fernando Clavijo; the President of the Parliament of the Canary Islands, Astrid Pérez; the Councillor for Universities, Science, Innovation, and Culture of the Canary Islands Government, Migdalia Machín; councillors of the Cabildo of Lanzarote, and the mayors of the island, who wished to stand alongside the people of Lanzarote and La Graciosa for this special and significant occasion.
A Celebratory Atmosphere
The heartfelt arrival in Mancha Blanca was marked by the traditional offering to the Virgin, an act that evokes the historic miracle of 1736 when lava from a volcanic eruption stopped at the intercession of Our Lady of Los Dolores. Amid music, flowers, and local produce, pilgrims paid tribute to the patroness in a festive and joyful atmosphere filled with devotion.
Culmination of the Festivities
The day concluded with the much-anticipated Baile del Romero, where parrandas and folkloric groups from the islands of Gran Canaria and Lanzarote filled the square with music and joy, celebrating one of the most emblematic events of Lanzarote and the entire Canary archipelago.
Upcoming Concerts
The festivities of Los Dolores will continue this Sunday and Monday, 15 September, with the expected concerts of 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, the plaza of Mancha Blanca will host the show ‘Balada de Sabanda’ featuring performances by Los Sabandeños, Olga Cerpa, and Mestisay. Finally, the celebrations will conclude with fireworks at 23:30.
