Tenerife Celebrates Bajada del Socorro, the Canary Islands’ Oldest Pilgrimage
The Bajada del Socorro in Güímar, recognized as the oldest pilgrimage in the Canary Islands, honors the Virgin of El Socorro through a historic two-day procession that blends religious devotion with the reenactment of the island's aboriginal heritage.
The celebrations honoring the Virgin of El Socorro are more than just a local event; they are a cornerstone of Tenerife’s cultural identity. Officially recognized as a Festival of Regional Tourist Interest, the Güímar festival is celebrated as the oldest pilgrimage in the Canary Islands.
The festival centers on two main days. On September 7th, the statue of the Virgin is carried from the church of San Pedro on a six-kilometer journey along the Camino del Socorro. Accompanied by crowds of devotees and musicians, the procession ends at the coast of Chimisay with a historical reenactment of the Virgin’s original discovery by the island’s aboriginal people. The following day, September 8th, the statue is returned to the center of Güímar, a journey that includes the traditional "Pares o nones" ritual as it passes through the La Asomada area.
Beyond its religious significance, the event is a major cultural phenomenon in the Canary Islands. By blending religious tradition with the reenactment of key historical moments, the "Bajada del Socorro" highlights the importance of preserving intangible heritage. It serves as a vital way for the people of Güímar to connect with one another, proving that faith and history can work together to keep local traditions alive in an increasingly standardized world.