Partir la Vieja in Arriate
Feast of the old woman’s day or so called "Partir la Vieja" is an ancient tradition of the municipality of Arriate in Malaga, Spain, celebrated each year on the Sunday closest to the middle of Lent. Locals usually spend a picnic with family and friends, where the old Lent is not taken into account and fasting is left behind.
What is the festival of "Partir la Vieja"?
This traditional festival, which has been taking place since the beginning of the 20th century, brings together a large number of people, including families, friends and visitors from nearby regions to spend a different and special day surrounded by good music, dances and of course good food.
Among the great variety of typical dishes, the "salmorejo pobre" stands out, a delicious cream or pure and other delicacies such as salami or blood sausage. You can also taste a refreshing drink made at home based on spices and brandy, all accompanied by an atmosphere of music, songs and traditional dances such as the "rondeñas."
A custom of this festival is to make dolls in the shape of women, which end up being destroyed by the people who go to this usual meeting.
Origin of the old woman’s day
The historical data of this holiday is not very clear. It is believed that it could start from the year 1700 and whose objective was to split the day of Lent in two as a way to break the rules imposed during the Holy Week, however, it is believed that the real intention was to celebrate the arrival of Spring as the ancient Greek and Roman civilizations used to do.
What to see in Arriate?
The municipality of Arriate in Malaga is surrounded by true scenic beauties that make the visitor feel in a true paradise. This majestic place of valleys and peaks invites you to visit its beautiful views such as the "Cerro de las Salinas" or the "Sierra de las Cumbres".
For those who love hiking, the obligatory appointment is to visit the "Ribera de Don Rodrigo" and the well-known Roman ruins of Acinipo or the "Garganta del Arroyo de la Ventilla", a true geological gem. It can also be a great adventure to enter the different streets of the town and take a tour until you reach the viewpoint called "La Estaca".
Gastronomy of Arriate and the Serranía de Ronda
Regarding the gastronomy of this region, there is a diversity of dishes and typical food such as the wonderful Arriateño stew, the rabbit with garlic or the famous migas. You can also taste its most varied desserts such as fritters, chestnuts and roasted sweet potatoes, without going unnoticed the artisanal liquors that are part of the gastronomic legacy of Arriate.
