Villajoyosa Commemorates 373rd Anniversary of the Miracle of Saint Martha's Tears

Two solemn masses and a parade marked the anniversary of the moment the patron saint's image wept on her altar.

Generic image of a church interior with an illuminated altar, evoking an atmosphere of religious celebration.
IA

Generic image of a church interior with an illuminated altar, evoking an atmosphere of religious celebration.

Villajoyosa commemorated on Friday, May 8, the 373rd anniversary of the miracle of the Tears of Saint Martha, a historical event that coincided with the royal signing for the construction of the Relleu reservoir.

The celebration included two solemn masses at the Church of Nuestra Señora de la Asunción and a festive parade. The first Eucharist was officiated at 11:00 AM, coinciding with the moment the patron saint's image began to weep on her altar on May 8, 1653.

While the image of the patron saint wept on her altar, King Philip IV signed the authorization to build the Relleu reservoir, which would supply water to the 'huerta vilera' during a period of severe drought.

The second mass was held at 7:30 PM and was attended by various local authorities and representatives. Before the religious celebrations, a parade took place from the Saint Martha Association to the Church Square, where the Almadrava dance group performed, accompanied by the Colla Els Valerios.
The children winners of the ambassadors' contest, organized by the Saint Martha Association, recited fragments of the Embassies, adding a cultural and traditional touch to the commemorative day.