History and Tradition

The Descent of the Virgin of Fuensanta is one of the most emblematic festivities of Pizarra, a picturesque municipality located in the heart of the Guadalhorce Valley, in the province of Malaga. This celebration, which takes place every three years, brings the community together in a show of faith, devotion and tradition. In this post, we will explore the history, meaning and particularities that make the Descent of the Virgin of Fuensanta such a special event.

History of the Descent of the Virgin of Fuensanta

Origins and Devotion

The devotion to the Virgin of Fuensanta in Pizarra dates back centuries, when the image of the Virgin was found in a fountain or spring (hence its name, “Fuensanta”). According to tradition, a shepherd discovered the image in a cave near the current Hermitage of Fuensanta. The appearance of the Virgin was quickly associated with miracles and prodigious events, which encouraged her veneration among the inhabitants of the region.

The hermitage, located in a beautiful natural setting, was built to house the image of the Virgin and became a place of pilgrimage and prayer. Over time, the festival of the Descent of the Virgin of Fuensanta became institutionalized, consolidating itself as one of the most important religious and cultural events in Pizarra.

The Tradition of the Descent

The tradition of the Descent of the Virgin begins with the image of the Virgin of Fuensanta being transferred from its hermitage to the parish church of San Pedro Apóstol in the centre of the town. This transfer symbolises the closeness of the Virgin to her devotees, allowing them to pay homage to her and request her intercession.

The festival is celebrated every three years, in the month of August, and lasts approximately one week. During this period, the Virgin remains in the parish church, where various religious and festive activities take place.

The Process of Descent

Preparations

Preparations for the Descent of the Virgin begin several months before the event. The Brotherhood of the Virgin of Fuensanta, together with numerous volunteers, is responsible for organizing all the details, from cleaning and decorating the hermitage and the church, to planning the religious and cultural activities.

The Descent

The day of the Descent is, without a doubt, the most eagerly awaited moment. The devotees congregate at the shrine from early in the morning. After a solemn mass, the procession begins. The image of the Virgin, adorned with flowers and lights, is carried on a throne that is carried on the shoulders of the faithful.

The journey from the hermitage to the church is an event full of emotion and devotion. The streets of Pizarra are decorated with flags, flowers and hangings. The procession, accompanied by music from local bands and religious chants, advances slowly, allowing the attendees to pay homage to the Virgin as she passes.

Events at the Parish Church

Once the image of the Virgin arrives at the parish church, a series of liturgical events are held in her honour. Masses, novenas and rosaries take place during the days that the Virgin remains in the town. These religious ceremonies are an opportunity for devotees to express their faith and devotion, and for the community to unite in prayer.

In addition to religious events, various cultural and festive activities are organised, such as concerts, street parties, competitions and exhibitions, which enrich the celebration and foster community spirit.

The Ascent of the Virgin

At the end of the week of celebrations, the time comes for the Ascension of the Virgin, in which the image is taken back to its hermitage. This event, although solemn, is also full of joy and gratitude. The devotees accompany the Virgin on her return, bidding her farewell with fervour until the next Descent.

The Ascent is, like the Descent, a multitudinous procession. The image is carried on the shoulders of the faithful, who walk the return route with the same devotion and enthusiasm. Once at the hermitage, a thanksgiving mass is celebrated and the Virgin is bid farewell until the next occasion.

Meaning and Peculiarities

Faith and Community

The Descent of the Virgin of Fuensanta is not only an expression of religious faith, but also an event that strengthens community ties. The active participation of the inhabitants of Pizarra in the organization and celebration of the festival is a testimony to the deep roots of this tradition in the collective identity of the town.

The Brotherhood of the Virgin of Fuensanta

The Brotherhood of the Virgen de la Fuensanta plays a fundamental role in the organisation of the Bajada. Founded with the aim of promoting and maintaining devotion to the Virgin, this brotherhood is responsible for all aspects related to the festivity, from preparations to liturgical and festive events.

The Cultural Dimension

In addition to its religious dimension, the Descent of the Virgin of Fuensanta has an important cultural component. The activities that take place during the week of celebration include displays of local folklore, typical cuisine and crafts, allowing visitors and the inhabitants of Pizarra to enjoy and appreciate the cultural riches of the region.

Nature and the Environment

The Fuensanta hermitage is located in a natural setting of great beauty, surrounded by mountains and vegetation. This setting adds a special element to the festivities, as the religious acts and processions take place in a landscape that invites reflection and contemplation.

Conclusion

The Descent of the Virgin of Fuensanta in Pizarra is a celebration that combines faith, tradition and culture in a unique event. Through the centuries, this festivity has kept the devotion to the Virgin alive and has strengthened the ties of the community. For the inhabitants of Pizarra, and for those who have the opportunity to participate in it, the Descent is a manifestation of their identity and a moment of profound spiritual and cultural significance.

This festival not only honours the Virgin of Fuensanta, but also celebrates the historical and cultural wealth of Pizarra, becoming an event that everyone, believers and non-believers, can appreciate and enjoy.