Pilgrimage of Our Lady of the Mountain
How the Pilgrimage of Our Lady of the Mountain is Celebrated
The pilgrimage takes place at the sanctuary-hermitage of Ntra. Sra. del Monte, Patroness and Advocate of the city since 1635, located 4 kilometers from the town in the heart of Sierra Morena.
The celebrations commence with a preparatory Triduum for three days leading up to the pilgrimage, featuring the recitation of the Rosary, Mass, and Salve. On Sunday, a pilgrimage is made to reach the sanctuary.
At 9:00 in the morning, all pilgrims gather at Paseo de Moro to begin the journey towards the Sanctuary.
Upon arrival, a Pilgrims' Mass is held at 12 o'clock, followed by the recitation of the Holy Rosary around 4 p.m. and the transfer of the Virgin to the village. One of the most emotional moments is when Our Lady of the Mountain descends from her Camarín to the ox-drawn carriage that will take her to Cazalla.
During the procession, the Virgin is accompanied by all pilgrims walking, on horseback, or in carriages, singing and dancing along the way.
Once in the village, the Patroness travels through the streets of Cazalla de la Sierra until she reaches the Parish Church of Ntra. Sra. de Consolación, where she will remain until the last Saturday of October, when she returns to her hermitage.
What to See in Cazalla de la Sierra
In Cazalla de la Sierra and its surroundings, you can enjoy:
- Santuario-ermita de Ntra. Sra. del Monte: The center of the pilgrimage and local devotion.
- Parroquia de Ntra. Sra. de Consolación: Impressive church where the Virgin resides temporarily.
- Paseo de Moro: Starting point of the pilgrimage and gathering area.
- Sierra Norte de Sevilla: Explore beautiful natural landscapes, perfect for hiking. Discover routes like the Water Route and the Castles Route.
- Cascadas del Huéznar: Visit these waterfalls and natural pools nearby.
- Castillo de Cazalla: Ruins of a medieval castle with panoramic views.
- Museo de la Naturaleza de Cazalla: Discover the local flora and fauna.
- Local Cuisine: Taste traditional dishes like gazpacho serrano and chacina.
- Historic Architecture: Explore cobbled streets and charming houses in the old town.
- Craftsmanship: Discover workshops for ceramics and traditional textiles.
- Festivals and Events: In addition to the Pilgrimage, enjoy the August Fair and other local festivities.
What to Eat in Cazalla de la Sierra. Popular Cuisine
In Cazalla de la Sierra, you can indulge in a delicious variety of traditional dishes from the mountain cuisine. Here are some recommendations we suggest:
- Gazpacho Serrano: A variation of the Andalusian gazpacho, made with tomatoes, peppers, cucumbers, garlic, and bread.
- Chacina: Cured meats and pork products like ham, chorizo, salchichón, and morcilla.
- Lomo en manteca: Pork loin cooked in lard, sometimes seasoned with spices.
- Pipirrana: Fresh salad with tomatoes, peppers, onions, cucumbers, and hard-boiled egg, dressed with oil and vinegar.
- Plato de los Montes: Meat stew with potatoes, peppers, and spices.
- Ajo de matanza: Soup made with bread, garlic, and peppers, typical of the pig slaughter season.
- Cazuela de espárragos trigueros: Fresh wild asparagus cooked with egg and ham.
- Migas serranas: Dish made with breadcrumbs, garlic, and other ingredients, often accompanied by grapes.
- Homemade Desserts: Try traditional sweets like pestiños, roscos, flores, and tortas de aceite.
- Liqueurs and Spirits: Don't miss the opportunity to taste local liqueurs and spirits, like "licor de bellota" (acorn liqueur).
Be sure to explore local restaurants and taverns to savor the authentic cuisine of Cazalla de la Sierra and experience the warmth of the region.
