Patron saint festivals in La Alberca, Diagosto and La Loa

La Alberca's Patron Saint Festivities

The annual festivities in honor of the Virgin of the Assumption are the highlights in La Alberca. Recognized as National Tourist Interest, these celebrations take place from August 14th to 18th.

Within these festivities, two events shine as National Tourist Interest: Diagosto, a commemoration honoring Our Lady of the Assumption, celebrated for five centuries, and La Loa, a medieval sacramental play reflecting the triumph of good over evil.

Rocket signals and bells on St. James' Day announce bullfights during the festivities if scheduled. On the Saturday before Diagosto, the Rocket Mass is celebrated at dawn, and on the Saturday after the festivities, the Mass of the Stars takes place. On the eve of the main day, drums mark the beginning of the celebration, and two drummers lead a parade through the village streets.

Diagosto

Known as August 15th in La Alberca, it celebrates the Assumption of the Virgin, the local patroness. In the morning, a drummer leads a parade, followed by authorities, stewards, guild members, and dancers, who gather in the Plaza Mayor before heading to the Parish Church.

After the High Mass, a procession carries the image of the Virgin of the Assumption through streets adorned with quilts, cloths, and flowers. The procession culminates in the Plaza Mayor, where the Offertory is held. In this solemn ritual, authorities and stewards wear traditional attire and make offerings to the Patroness without turning their backs.

Next, the families of the stewards present their offerings in order of kinship. Finally, dancers perform traditional and commemorative dances, such as the cross dance, the circle dance, and the stick dances. This is the day when you can admire the beautiful attire of La Alberca, including the spectacular Traje de Vistas worn by Stewardesses and brides on their wedding day. These popular costumes are some of the most deeply rooted and prominent in the entire country, as recognized in both national and international works.

La Loa

The day after the Diagosto celebration, near the church atrium, La Loa takes place—a medieval sacramental play where villagers become protagonists. Angels and demons share the stage in a battle where good prevails over evil.

What to See in La Alberca

La Alberca is a charming village located in the province of Salamanca, in the autonomous community of Castile and León. The town is characterized by its traditional architecture, cobblestone streets, and beautiful natural landscapes. There are many interesting things to see both in La Alberca and its surroundings:

• Traditional Architecture: Stroll through the cobblestone streets of La Alberca and admire its traditional architecture with stone houses and wooden balconies. The village has been declared a Historic-Artistic Ensemble, ensuring the preservation of its historical and cultural charm.
• Plaza Mayor: Visit La Alberca's Plaza Mayor, a lively square surrounded by historic buildings and restaurants. It's an important meeting point and a perfect place to immerse yourself in the village atmosphere.
• Church of Nuestra Señora de la Asunción: This parish church is a magnificent example of religious architecture. Its construction began in the 15th century, and inside you'll find impressive details such as altars and sacred artworks.
• Museum of Customs and Traditions: If you want to learn more about the history and culture of La Alberca, this museum is an interesting visit. It displays objects related to the traditional life of the village, such as typical costumes, agricultural tools, and household utensils.
• Natural Viewpoints: Enjoy panoramic views of the surroundings of La Alberca from nearby viewpoints, such as the Mirador de la Peña de Francia and the Mirador de la Bastida.
• Natural Environment: Explore the surroundings of La Alberca, located in the heart of the Sierra de Francia. The landscape is dominated by mountains, valleys, and forests. It's a perfect place for hiking, cycling, and enjoying nature.
• Gastronomy: Savor the delicious cuisine of the region, which includes dishes such as jamón serrano (serrano ham), local sausages, and traditional dishes like "caldereta de cordero" (lamb stew). Don't forget to try the famous local ham.

These are just a few examples of the rich and varied food you can enjoy in La Alberca and its surroundings. The local cuisine reflects the tradition and authenticity of the area, making the gastronomic experience an essential part of your visit.

What to Eat in La Alberca

La Alberca, situated in the region of Castilla y León in Spain, offers a delightful variety of traditional dishes that reflect the rich culinary culture of the area. Here are some dishes you shouldn't miss during your visit:

• Jamón Serrano: Spain is famous for its ham, and in La Alberca, you can taste high-quality jamón serrano. A delicious and flavorful delicacy.
• Embutidos: The region is known for a variety of cured meats, such as chorizo, salchichón (salami), and lomo embuchado (cured pork loin). Perfect for snacking as an appetizer or part of a charcuterie board.
• Morcilla: Morcilla, a rice sausage, is a typical local specialty. It may vary in flavor and texture but is an important ingredient in many local dishes.
• Caldereta de Cordero: This traditional stew is made with lamb, potatoes, peppers, and sometimes peas. A comforting and flavorful dish.
• Huevos a la Alberca: A unique dish that combines fried eggs with jamón serrano and peppers, all cooked in a skillet. A hearty breakfast or lunch.
• Sopa Castellana: This rich and tasty soup is made with bread, garlic, peppers, and poached egg. Comforting and perfect for chilly days.
• Lechazo Asado: Throughout the Castilla y León region, roasted suckling lamb (lechazo asado) is a specialty. It's young lamb roasted in the oven with herbs and spices.
• Homemade Desserts: Don't forget to save room for desserts. You can enjoy flans, custards, rice pudding, and other homemade delights.
• Cheeses: The region produces excellent cheeses, such as goat cheese. You can try them as tapas or as part of a cheese platter.
• Wines: Accompany your meals with local wines from the Salamanca region. The wine region of Sierra de Francia produces unique and delicious wines that will complement your dishes.

These are just a few examples of the rich and diverse cuisine you can enjoy in La Alberca and its surroundings. The local cuisine reflects the tradition and authenticity of the area, making the culinary experience an essential part of your visit.