Historic Coronation of Virgen del Rocío Captivates Seville
A centuries-long aspiration culminated on July 5, 2025, as the Virgen del Rocío was officially crowned in a spectacular procession through the streets of Seville, drawing massive crowds and marking a pivotal moment for the brotherhood and the city.
The coronation of the Virgen del Rocío, an event long anticipated by the brotherhood – known by various names including “The Brothers of Rocío” and “Judas kiss or redemption” – represents the fulfillment of a deeply held desire. This wasn’t a recent undertaking, but rather a project “gestated even in previous times,” according to sources within the organization. The July 5th procession is now etched in the history of the brotherhood, renowned for its devotion to one of the most universally venerated figures in Spanish Catholicism, and its strong ties to the Almonte matrix, of which it is godmother and honorary sister.
A Procession Unlike Any Other
The procession, described as “very spray” and reminiscent of the brotherhood’s unique style, began at 8:00 PM as the doors of San Miguel opened. Prior to the procession’s departure, the Musical Group of the Redemption performed ‘Holy Spirit’ amidst high summer temperatures. The timing of the coronation was deliberately chosen to coincide as closely as possible with Pentecost.
The event drew an unprecedented level of participation, with over one hundred brotherhoods joining the Brotherhood of the Redemption in a display of solidarity. Representatives traveled from across Andalusia, with the Brotherhood of León, the farthest contingent, making a particularly notable appearance. A senior official noted the vibrant energy of the corporation, highlighting the significant involvement of young people dedicated to the devotion to the Virgen del Rocío. The procession subtly acknowledged Holy Monday traditions, with circials representing corporations from that day and acolytes contributing to the spectacle.
From San Miguel to the City Council
The Virgen del Rocío commenced her journey from San Miguel, crossing the lintel almost an hour after the guide cross. A profound silence fell as the caller rang, broken only by the ecstatic response of the crowd as the Palio passed, accompanied by the royal march and the specially composed march of the coronation. Following the initial homage, the classic piece ‘Rocío’ resonated as the procession advanced along the Avenue of the Constitution, culminating with the strains of ‘Coronation of the Macarena’. The avenue, still adorned with decorations from the Corpus celebrations, was filled with onlookers, including captivated tourists.
The journey from San Miguel to the City Council took over an hour. Upon arrival, the Municipal Corporation offered a floral tribute, though attendance was reportedly limited due to the Popular Party Convention taking place in Madrid that weekend. The Red Cross Band performed the pasodoble ‘La Giralda’ as the step turned to acknowledge both the participating corporations and the general public. The Virgin remained at the City Council for over half an hour before continuing towards the Plaza del Salvador, a highly anticipated leg of the route.
A Night of Music and Devotion
The path from the City Council to the Plaza del Salvador was marked by a rich tapestry of musical performances. The interpretation of the Salve by the drummers, in the purest Rociero style, accompanied the Virgen del Rocío along Granada Street. As the procession reached the Plaza del Salvador, Paco Reguera lifted the canopy as petals rained down from above, creating a moment of profound reverence.
The Choir of Seville then performed their anthem – “Rocío, Rocío, Rocío, Rocío, Pastora, Pastora, Pastora, Pastora” – as the Palio paused, allowing the Virgin to face the assembled crowd. Following a brief interlude, the Red Cross Band performed the Salve once more, prompting enthusiastic cries of “Long live the Virgen del Rocío!”, “Long live the mother of the Redeemer!”, “Long live the pride of Seville!”, and “Long live the Mother of God!”
Continuing the Journey Through Seville
The procession continued through the streets of Seville, transforming Laraña into an impromptu provisioning station where brothers received refreshments. Fireworks illuminated the night sky as the Red Cross Band played pieces dedicated to the Virgen de la Esperanza. As the procession reached Imagen Street, a spectacle of green flares evoked the deep devotion at the heart of the brotherhood.
The Musical Group of Redemption bid farewell at the Plaza del Cristo de Burgos, where the crowd vibrated with the bars of ‘Pasa la Virgen Macarena’. The Virgen del Rocío then entered the bedroom street, adorned in the traditional Almonteño style with lights, arches, and paper flowers. Prayers continued as the procession navigated the narrow streets of the neighborhood, culminating in a joyous scene at the Plaza de San Leandro, filled with petals, sevillanas, and enthusiastic cheers.
A Symbolic Finale
Past four in the morning, the Virgin arrived at Santiago Street, marking the culmination of the coronation path. The brothers, weary but elated, returned to the temple. However, the most symbolic moment was yet to come: the unveiling of the commemorative altarpiece of coronation, a lasting tribute to the brotherhood’s history and the city’s devotion.
Shortly before five in the morning, the Virgen del Rocío entered the church, where the Lord of Redemption awaited her at the main altar. This coronation, described as “different, very personal, and full of details,” will be remembered by Sevillians for generations. This event is not viewed as an ending, but rather a beginning, with July 5th now permanently enshrined as a day of commemoration for the brotherhood, celebrating both its past and its continued growth in faith and devotion.
