Los Rondeles Fiesta

On the night of 12 December, eve of the feast of Santa Lucía, the village of Casarabonela (Malaga province) lights up with the burning of “rondeles” (rolled wicker mats, soaked in oil).

This tradition comes from an old procession made by olive oil millers, carrying their wicker baskets in flames, as an act of thanksgiving to the Holy Shepherdess (Virgin Mary) for the harvest obtained.

In 1999, the statue of the Holy Shepherdess received the name “María Santísima de los Rondeles” (Our Lady of the Rondeles). Since 2000 it has been located in the restored Veracruz Shrine, the departure point for the procession every 12 December.

It is considered a Fiesta of Tourist Interest in Andalusia.

At around 10pm the fire that will burn the oil-soaked mats is blessed. Those carrying them begin their route from the square alongside the Veracruz Shrine, accompanying the image of the Virgen de los Rondeles and heading up to the highest part of the village, site of the Santiago Apóstol Parish Church.

On the way, the “rondeleros” with their flaming mats are accompanied by the sound of traditional instruments such as Moorish castanets, creating a unique atmosphere of light, dancing shadows and sounds.

When they get up to the Caño de Álora fountain, those carrying the “rondeles” make a stop to dampen down the flames and, now approaching midnight, the whole procession accompanying the statue of the Virgin ends its route next to the old mosque, now Santiago Apóstol Parish Church. The statue is carried into the church where it remains for a few days. Once installed, a hymn is sung in her honour.

At the water fountain behind the parish church, the pilgrims put out their fires and this signals the start of the festive revelry that goes on until the early hours of the morning.

On the second Saturday after 12 December, the statue goes back to its shrine. On this occasion, the route is different and the “rondeles” are transported by children. Christmas carols are sung and the route is illuminated, not only by the “rondeles”, but also by small oil lamps dotted around the façades of the houses.