The Candlemas of Almendralejo
Las Candelas de Almendralejo is a local tradition where everyone performs a rite of purification through fire. It's just what you imagine! Groups of people, associations and schools make bonfires to get rid of all the bad things and hope that good luck will come.
This is how the Fiesta de Las Candelas is experienced in Almendralejo
Every year, groups of people, schools and associations register their candles at the Town Hall, so that their bonfires can burn on 1 February and be part of this magical popular festival.
If you take a tour of the squares and schools, you will find bonfires with a variety of themes. There are the classics, such as devils and ghosts, but there are those who let their creativity run wild and use more contemporary themes with a deeper meaning, such as weapons, drugs and corruption.
On 2 February, which corresponds to Candlemas Day, parents bring their children born the previous year to receive a blessing and light a candle to ask the Virgin for good health and luck for these little ones.
Finally, on 3 February, the festival of Las Candelas de Almendralejo culminates and coincides with the day of San Blas and the day of Chorizo, which is why it is customary for people to go out to eat migas and chorizo.
Origin of the Candlemas Festival in Almendralejo
Many consider that the origin of Las Candelas de Almendralejo comes from the Romans, however, since the 17th century these bonfires symbolize the burning of the impure and to keep away evil spirits, achieving with this, the purification of all attendees.
Sightseeing in Almendralejo
Almendralejo is a town that offers many interesting places to visit while you walk through its streets in search of the Candelas. We recommend you remember these options:
- Casa Palacio Marqués de la Encomienda: declared an Asset of Cultural Interest, it is the most important civil building in the town. However, it is not possible to enter it, as it is still owned by the family.
- Wine Science Museum: located in an old alcohol factory, this museum with a modern design, highlights the wine culture of Extremadura, as well as its cultivation and development.
What to eat in Almendralejo
When you are touring the different Candelas in Almendralejo, you will see crowds of people around the Candelas, enjoying migas and chorizo, drinking exquisite wine. But there are other dishes that you can try during these days.
- Trucha extremeña: This is a delicious dish. A sauce of garlic, ham, pine nuts and lemon is prepared and added to the trout, which is then baked in the oven so that it can absorb all its flavour.
- Cocido de Almendralejo: exquisite chickpea or bean soup, vegetables, meat and sausages. An ideal dish for the seasonal climate.
