Canary Islands Launch Massive Security Operation for Virgin of Candelaria Pilgrimage
Authorities in the Canary Islands have launched a massive security operation involving nearly 600 professionals to manage the expected influx of over 100,000 pilgrims for the Virgin of Candelaria festivities.
Local authorities and the island council are facing a major logistical challenge as they prepare for the festivities honoring the Virgin of Candelaria, the patron saint of the Canary Islands. The security operation, known as 'Morenita 26,' is designed to manage a massive crowd that typically exceeds 100,000 people. Officials expect numbers to be even higher this year, as the main celebrations fall on a weekend and lead into the Octave festival on Sunday, August 16.
The core safety operation will run from 3:00 p.m. on August 14 until 3:00 p.m. on August 15. Nearly 600 professionals will be deployed to ensure the safety of pilgrims. This includes a field hospital in the town center and emergency teams stationed in forest areas, where the risk of fire and dehydration is high during the summer.
Traffic management is another key priority. To reduce congestion and ensure safe access, the TF-28 road will be closed between El Chorrillo and Las Caletillas from the afternoon of the 14th until the end of the Athletic March on the morning of the 15th. Officials are strongly urging the public to use public transport instead of private cars, noting that there will be changes to the Coastal Circular Line and restrictions on roads leading into the town.
This extensive plan highlights the complexity of managing such a large-scale religious and cultural event. It requires seamless coordination between security forces, emergency services, and various government agencies to ensure the safety of all attendees.