Elche's El Rocío concludes record-breaking edition with traditional return journey

The Rocío procession has returned to the city after several days of fervor, music, and large-scale events, exceeding participation expectations.

Generic image of a religious procession with an image of the Virgin.
IA

Generic image of a religious procession with an image of the Virgin.

The El Rocío pilgrimage in Elche concluded this Sunday with the traditional return journey from the reservoir, closing an edition marked by devotion and music.

The celebration, organized by the Casa de Andalucía, has gathered a record number of participants, surpassing previous years' figures according to organizational estimates, which place between 2,000 and 3,000 people at the most crowded events.
Saturday was marked by a festive atmosphere at the Rocío grounds, featuring the traditional horse parade and a performance by the group Candela after mass. The highlight arrived in the early morning hours with the traditional 'salto de la reja' (jumping of the railing), an act of great devotional fervor.

"Participation has been higher than registered in previous years."

Juan José Jaén · President of the Casa de Andalucía of Elche
After the singing of the Salve and the procession of the Simpecado around the grounds, the image of the Virgin began its procession through the eighteen installed tents, amidst chants and prayers, returning to its chapel around 3:30 AM.
This Sunday, the pilgrims have begun their journey back to the city after dismantling the facilities. The Virgin made a final stop at the Jardín de Andalucía before concluding another edition of Elche's El Rocío.