La Paloma Festival
Jul 8th, 2009 by apartmentblogger
La Paloma Madrid - one of the the most traditional festivals in Madrid
August is one of the most festive months in the Madrid calendar. Although the capital is quite empty in the summer months, thousands of people gather in La Latina neighbourhood from 6th to 15th August to hold La Paloma Festival, one of the most traditional celebrations of the city. La Paloma Virgin is the most beloved patron of Madrid, although the official one is the Virgin of Almudena.
Among the virgins linked to Madrid, La Paloma Virgin is one of the most modern virgins. Its devotion dates back to the eighteenth century, when its canvas was found by some children in a corral.
They sold the painting to Isabel Tintero, who first hung it in the doorway of her own house where it captivated the hearts of all the neighbours who came in search of cures and protection. The Virgin got so famous, that in 1791 Isabel Tintero asked permission to build a chapel in her honour. The following year, the picture of the Paloma Virgin was transferred to the new chapel, located on a street with her same name. Between 1891 and 1911, a larger church was built: the San Pedro el Real de la Paloma parish.
The religious festival became soon a popular festival, which would gain in importance from 1875. Tradition dictates that each 15th August a procession with the Paloma Virgin picture should be held. The picture is placed in a coach adorned with carnations and it’s carried on the shoulders of the Madrid firemen.
The Madrid people wear the typical period costumes (chulapos and chulapas) (the neckerchief for the men and a scarf on the head with a red carnation for the women) and compete with each other offering flattering verses - dedicating the most original and flattering to the Virgin. In addition, they dance the best known schotis (to the rhythm of Agustín Lara and his song dedicated to this city). The neighbours are invited to drink lemonade, sangria and vermouth to combat the high temperatures of the city.
Why not travel to Madrid in August and get to see the famous Festival of La Paloma. It’s one of Madrid’s best known festivals so you had better rent apartments in Madrid to book your stay now and avoid disappointment.
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This is one of Madrid’s best festivals. I haven’t dressed in period clothing yet but it’s really fun!