Watch Pilgrimages Of Europe El Rocio

The Romeria de El Rocio, in Andalusia in the deep south of Spain, is the most important pilgrimage to the Blessed Mother on the Iberian Peninsula. The many pilgrims who flock to the little town every year come to venerate the Holy Virgin of El Rocio, also known as the Virgin of the Dew. During the week before Pentecost a million pilgrims, the Rocieros, make their way to El Rocio on foot, on horseback, in oxcarts, on tractors or in cars. The trip often takes many days. During the night after Pentecost Sunday the Virgin emerges from the church to greet her people. For the people of Andalusia there will always be an El Rocio. The day after Pentecost the Rocieros begin preparations for the following year. For them El Rocio is more than just a pilgrimage. It is a way of life.