Essential Marbella Magazine

Right across the Costa del Sol on July 26th the coastal towns and fishing villages transform into vibrant hubs of celebration for the Virgen del Carmen (Our Lady of Mount Carmel). Revered as the Estrella de los Mares (Star of the Seas), she is the beloved patron saint of Spanish fishermen, mariners, and the Spanish Navy.

While Spain is famous for its solemn Easter processions, the fiesta of the Virgen del Carmen is a joyful, high-energy summer celebration where the sacred literally meets the sea.