Virgen de la Cabeza pilgrimage
Spain's oldest pilgrimage, deep in the Sierra de Andújar.
Key points
- It is held on the last weekend of April, with Sunday as the main day. In 2027, on 25 April.
- It is considered the oldest pilgrimage in Spain: the devotion is documented from the 13th century.
- It has been a Festival of International Tourist Interest since 1980.
- The sanctuary, a basilica since 2010, stands on the Cerro del Cabezo, inside the Sierra de Andújar Nature Park.
Every spring, tens of thousands of pilgrims climb into the Sierra de Andújar to honour the Virgen de la Cabeza, «la Morenita». They come on foot, on horseback and in carts from all over Andalusia and beyond, in a festival that blends faith, tradition and landscape.
How the pilgrimage unfolds
- Flag Sundays. Throughout April, the brotherhoods hold their preliminary events in Andújar.
- Friday. Official welcome of the affiliated brotherhoods, who enter Andújar over the Roman bridge.
- Saturday. The brotherhoods climb to the sanctuary and present themselves to the Virgin.
- Sunday. Solemn mass in the morning and procession of the Virgin around the sanctuary.
- Monday. Farewell and return of the mother brotherhood to Andújar.
The sanctuary
The sanctuary is about 30 km from Andújar along a mountain road with views over the nature park. Outside the pilgrimage, it is a peaceful visit that can be combined with wildlife walks: this is lynx country.
Practical tips
Traffic and access
During the pilgrimage, car access to the sanctuary is controlled and roads are closed. Check the shuttle buses and car parks provided by Andújar town council, and bring water, a hat and comfortable shoes.
Frequently asked questions
When is the Virgen de la Cabeza pilgrimage?
On the last weekend of April; in 2027, Sunday 25 April.