El Milagro | Tradicional and cultural event
El Milagro (The Miracle) is one of the most important religious festivities in Salta, Argentina. This festivity is celebrated once a year and it commemorates the earthquakes that shook the city in September, 1692.
Everything strats the last days of July and first ones of August when the images of Señor and Virgen del Milagro, patron saints of the city, are enthroned in the Cathedral. During August different schools and institutions attend masses in honor of Seño y Virgen del Milagro. On, September 6th a novena begins in preparation for the procession to be celebrated on the 15th of that same month.
During the nine previous days to the procession people go to the Cathedral to pray the novena, especially at night, when a giant screen is placed in the street so people who couldn’t find a place in the crowded interior of the tample can see what’s happening inside. 9 de Julio Square, located in front of the Cathedral, is full of faithfull people from all over the country, the air is scented with orange trees’ flowers and carnations salespersons are everywere. Many people buy carnatios for the ornaments of their patron saints images; withe ones are for the Virgin and red ones for the Lord.
During these nine days and especially dwring the two ones before the procession pilgrims from all over the province arrive to the city. Many of them having left their homes several days before to walk their way to Salta and renovate the fidelity pact made by their ancestors to Señor y Virgen del Milagro.
On September 15th the novena ends with a huge procession lead by the Señor y Virgen images through the streets of the city and a renovoation of the fidelity pact between the people and their divine protectors. At night the images returne to the Cathedral waved by thousands of white handkerchiefs, a rain of roses’ petals of roses and the cheerful ringing of the temple’s bells. Then a mass is celebrated.
This moving celebration summons pilgrims and many tourists from all over the world, so if you are thinking of visiting Salta on this dates you must make your hotel reservatios with enough time.
During this time of the year the weather can be rather impredictable so you should pack some clothes for rain, cool and warm days.
