The Patron Saint of Algeciras, whose image remains submerged throughout the year at a depth of about 15 meters in an underwater grotto off the coast, will be rescued by divers from the Club de Actividades Subacuáticas El Mero. This act marks the beginning of a centuries-old tradition that blends religious devotion, maritime culture, and the city's strong historical connection with the sea.
The highlight of the day will be when the divers transport the statue of the Virgin to Rinconcillo beach. This unique event attracts thousands of people each year who gather on the coast to accompany their patron saint, turning the Algeciras coastline into a meeting point.
Recognized since 2014 as a Festival of Tourist Interest in Andalusia, the Maritime Pilgrimage of the Virgin of La Palma stands out for its uniqueness, difficult to find elsewhere in Andalusia. The celebration not only emphasizes the religious dimension but also the importance of the fishing and diving communities that have kept this tradition alive.
This festival, repeated every August, represents a unique spectacle that unites generations of Algeciras residents and visitors by the sea, reaffirming the identity of Algeciras and its deep connection with the ocean.
