The tradition of the Cascamorras was fulfilled once again in Baza, preventing the accitano Antonio J. Vera, who embodied the figure this year, from reaching the Merced clean to offer the possibility of taking the Virgen de la Piedad to Guadix. Despite this, some 17,000 people filled the city streets, showing their affection for Cascamorras, embracing him, and carrying him to the feet of the patron saint, where he could pray.
The day of September 6th proceeded with normality and without significant incidents. The security device, coordinated from the Advanced Command Post in Plaza de las Eras, barely had to intervene. The balance of the race, which marks the opening of the September Fair and Festivals, was limited to two transfers to the hospital for ankle trauma and fourteen minor interventions.
Previously, Antonio J. Vera, accompanied by former Cascamorras and members of the Brotherhood of the Virgen de la Piedad of Guadix, was received at the City Hall by the mayor of Baza, Pedro J. Ramos, and the Councilor for Culture, José Gabriel López. Also present were the delegate for Tourism of Granada, José Manuel López, and the provincial deputy for Culture, Pilar Caracuel. After the reception, the procession moved to Las Arrodeas to begin the secular race, declared a Festival of International Tourist Interest in 2013.
“"It has once again been exciting, spectacular, and it has also been a calm event, without major incidents, and where the respect, civility, and responsibility of the people of Baza have prevailed. I want to thank the work, vigilance, and presence of all those who have ensured that Cascamorras 2026 continues to be the great festival we all know. A special and strong hug also to Antonio J. Vera, who has shown his experience, his physical power, and the affection he has for Baza and for the Virgen de la Piedad. Congratulations to all."
The mayor expressed his satisfaction after the celebration's balance was confirmed, highlighting the emotion, the calmness of the event, and the civic behavior of the citizens of Baza. He thanked the work of all those involved in security and especially congratulated Antonio J. Vera for his performance and affection towards the festival and the Virgin.
