Pilgrimage of the Virgen de la Estrella

Description

The pilgrimage takes place around the hermitage of the patron saint, located about 5 kilometres from Navas de San Juan. Declared of national tourist interest, the events begin as early as 30 April, with a floral offering to the Virgin's standard and a solemn Mass.

1 May begins with a wake-up call, as local authorities set off from the town hall to the sanctuary of La Virgen de La Estrella. Everyone follows the standard in a procession, with floats and pilgrims on horseback, dressed in Andalusian costume. A solemn Mass is held at the sanctuary. Various performances take place that day in the sanctuary's auditorium.

On 2 May, the authorities once again set off from the town hall towards the sanctuary; after the religious events and celebration, the co-patron saint of Navas de San Juan is carried from the sanctuary to the monument commemorating her apparition to the farmer Juan, in the 12th century.

On 3 May, following Mass at the sanctuary, La Virgen de La Estrella is returned to the parish church. The image is welcomed with rose petals, in the most moving moment of the pilgrimage in honour of La Virgen de La Estrella in Navas de San Juan. In the evening, there is a big celebration and fireworks.