Hermitage of El Rocío

The Hermitage of El Rocío is a revered site nestled in the heart of Andalusia, Spain. This emblematic church is not only a spiritual haven but also the focal point of the annual Romería de El Rocío, one of the most significant and vibrant pilgrimages in the country. The hermitage is dedicated to the Virgin of El Rocío, also known as the Blanca Paloma or the White Dove, and is a place of immense religious significance for the devotees who gather here.

Constructed in the early 20th century, the Hermitage of El Rocío blends traditional Andalusian architecture with Baroque elements, creating a serene and picturesque ambiance. Its pristine white walls and simple yet elegant structure stand in contrast to the surrounding Doñana National Park, a biosphere reserve with lush wetlands.

The annual pilgrimage, which culminates at this church, attracts nearly a million people from across Spain and beyond. Pilgrims, adorned in traditional attire, travel on foot, horseback, or in ornate carriages to pay homage to the Virgin. The event peaks with the 'Salto de la Reja', a ritual where the devotees leap over the fence to carry the statue of the Virgin in a procession, an act of deep faith and fervor.