On 16th July Nerja celebrates the day of the Virgen Del Carmen, the patron saint of fishermen and sailors. The festival begins with a floral offering on the night of the 15th.
On the 16th a procession begins at the El Salvador church near the Balcon de Europa, with the municipal band leading the way followed by the statue of the Virgen del Carmen. The procession makes its way to Torrecilla Beach where much of the town is waiting to see the statue loaded onto a boat. From there the statue is paraded along the coastline, attended by all manner of boats, until it is brought back to land on Calahonda Beach (see map below). The festivities are concluded with a firework display, which lights up the by now darkened sea.
The final day is the 17th with a “Moraga” – music and dancing and a bonfire in the Plaza de Cangrejos by Torrecilla Beach. There is entertainment for children, a bar, and free sardines. In many ways this is the highlight of the festival.
Virgen del Carmen Timetable
Please note all events are subject to confirmation by Nerja council, but are normally as follows.
15th July – Floral offering at the Iglesia El Salvador (by the Balcon de Europa) 7pm accompanied by a choir.
16th July – Procession from El Salvador church accompanied by choirs – 7pm.
17th July – Moraga – Music, free sardines and drinks at €1 at Plaza Cangrejos – 10pm.
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Map
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