REAL EXPERTS IN REAL ESTATE
WHERE TRADITIONS LIVE ON
"THE FIESTA DE LOS REMEDIOS"
IN YAIZA
On the 9th of May of 1731, the town of Yaiza was confronted with the most dangerous day in its history. Volcanic eruptions had already completely destroyed large parts of the surrounding landscape and some houses in the south of the island. On this day, new eruptions were shattering the earth and three new lava flows started on their destructive way. Unstoppable, they came closer to Yaiza, leaving behind nothing but fire and ashes. The population of the town was expecting the worst as the lava flow came closer and closer at an enormous speed. In his desperation, the priest of the town church decided to celebrate a mass to ask the local saint, the “Virgin de los Remedios” for help in this frightening situation. Suddenly, as if by magic, the lava flow stopped and the all destructive fire, too.
Since then, every year in September, Yaiza celebrates with a fiesta in honor of the virgin, to show its gratidude for the ´miracle´ that occurred that day in Yaiza.
Today, 275 years later, the “fiesta de los remedios” is a good example of demonstrating how the old traditions are still alive. Instead of fear, which was felt back in 1731, happiness and hospitality abound. Every year in autumn, for a whole week, the town of Yaiza becomes the centre of attraction of the island, and residents and guests celebrate and pray together to honor the virgin. The main spot of the fiesta is the “romería”, which is a pilgrimage through the town to the church where the virgin receives donations. Dressed in traditional costume, either with donkey pulled carts or on the backs of camels, the pilgrims progress through the town. Folklore groups playing typical tunes of the island and dancing as they go. Food and drink are generously given to everybody, sweet white wine from “La Geria”, the traditional “gofio”, “papas arrugadas” with “mojo” or different types of biscuits are tasted.
The “romería” is a perfect opportunity to get to know the traditions of this unique island and to enjoy the hospitality and friendliness of the locals. During the pilgrimage everyone becomes part of the celebratory crowd and until you arrive at the church, you have the chance to meet some new people and make new friendships. Later on, the celebration goes on around the church inviting all to spend the evening and night together with the new friends in Yaiza.