Also known as La Morena, the Virgin of La Candelaria is proclaimed and celebrated by many Cartageneros during the months of January and February. This historical and cultural festival takes place every year from January 24 to February 2, representing a sacred novena with deep religious meaning for all the inhabitants of Cartagena.

The La Candelaria festivities have their roots in colonial times, when slavery still existed. La Popa, a historical and cultural place, is the only hill in the city, and on its top stands the church of the Convent of Santa Cruz de La Popa. People come there to worship the Virgin and listen to the priest's sermon. During the holidays, even more people come to the place, as everyone wants to participate in the celebration.

In Cartagena, during this period, citizens go up to the church to perform the daily novena. Many of them do it with canes that are sold on the slopes of La Popa, a place known by the people of Cartagena. There, they acquire sugar canes, a sweet delicacy recognized by the natives. Many claim that they buy the cane to enjoy it while ascending the mountain, providing them with the energy necessary to reach the top, where the Convent Church of Santa Cruz de La Popa is located.

During the nine days of the novena, citizens go up to perform their daily prayers. On the last day, February 2, everyone descends from the hill along with the Virgin to take her to the Church of the Ermita Pie de La Popa. During this journey, several people carry the Virgin, carrying out the ritual of the procession.

During the celebration period in Cartagena, numerous artistic and cultural activities are carried out, including ancestral rhythms and rituals. Some of them are known as Candlelight Night Parades, Cumbiatón, Cumbia and Flavor Conversation, Homage and Serenade to the Virgin, Candle Night, Campal Eucharist and Procession of the Virgin.

Join the celebration of the La Candelaria Festival in Cartagena! Discover the cultural and religious wealth of our city. The Spanish school Nueva Lengua It is located in Bogotá, Cartagena, Medellín and Ibagué. Check the activities and plans Tourist What we have for you, or write to us on any of our social networks (@nuevalengua) for more information about our Spanish courses and cultural immersion in Colombia.