Almonte hosts 1.4 million pilgrims for Virgen del Rocío procession

Approximately 1.4 million pilgrims participated in the 'Venida de la Virgen del Rocío' to Almonte, an event the local government has described as a historic mobilization and one of the largest religious pilgrimages ever recorded in Spain.

The procession, which involves the transfer of the 'Blanca Paloma' from her sanctuary in El Rocío to the Parish of Nuestra Señora de la Asunción, covered 15.7 kilometers over nearly 20 hours. The image arrived at the altar on the morning of August 20.

To manage the massive crowds, authorities deployed a coordinated operation involving security forces, civil protection, and over 300 local police officers. Logistics included the use of 419 buses and the management of nearly 90% parking occupancy. Sustainability efforts were also noted, including the distribution of 100,000 water bottles and the removal of approximately 200,000 kilograms of waste during the peak period of attendance.