Bolivians ignited Tenerife with the dances of the Virgin of Urkupiña
In Santa Cruz de Tenerife, the Bolivian community grandly celebrated the Day of the Virgin of Urkupiña, showcasing traditions, dances, and faith.
Santa Cruz de Tenerife was buzzing this weekend! The Bolivian community living there held a vibrant celebration. The Salamanca district, in the Center-Ifara district, was decorated for the Day of the Virgin of Urkupiña. This is an important holiday of faith, traditions and dances for them, dedicated to the patron saint of Bolivians.
According to the Santa Cruz City Hall, all this was made possible thanks to the joint efforts of the Bolivian community, the Los Calchenos de Potosí brotherhood and the Center-Ifara district. Throughout the weekend, incredible events took place, as if transporting viewers to the Bolivian Andes.
On Friday evening, a mass was held in the Fatima Church, and then dancers performed their numbers dedicated to the Virgin on the square in front of the church.
But the main celebration took place on Sunday. After the mass, a procession with the Virgin of Urkupiña passed through the streets of Salamanca. It was followed by about twenty folk groups.
All of them were dressed in bright costumes and danced with great energy, paying homage to the Virgin of Urkupiña. People could see the majestic Morenada with its slow movements reminiscent of slaves, the fiery and flirtatious Salay - one of the most beloved dances from the valleys of Potosí and Chuquisaca, as well as the strong and symbolic Tinku, representing the ritual meeting of Andean communities. In addition, there were other dances, such as the energetic Caporal, the elegant Kullawada of Aymara weavers, and Potolos, a rural dance of worship.
The mayor of Santa Cruz, José Manuel Bermúdez, said that this holiday shows how rich the culture of the city is. He added that "Santa Cruz is the capital of hospitality, where the unity of different cultures is joyfully celebrated through dance and faith."
The district councilor, Purificación Dávila, noted that this event "testifies to the fact that our organizations are strong and their members are closely connected with their roots." She promised to continue to support such events that strengthen ties between people and cultures.