Within the framework of the 59th Vallenato Legend Festival, the emblematic Alfonso López Square in Valledupar was the scene of the representation of the Miracle of the Virgin of the Rosary, an event that reminds locals and visitors that the greatest accordion festival was born from a miracle. The Festival Foundation highlighted the importance of keeping this cultural tradition alive, which combines history, devotion, and music.
A tradition that beats at the heart of the festival
Under the radiant sun of April 30, the congregation of the Virgin, along with local actors, recreated the historic battle between indigenous people and Spaniards. The representation, considered the mystical heart of the Festival, was the epicenter of the gaze of tourists and Vallenatos who crowded to witness the triumph of faith over war. Through its official channels, the Vallenato Legend Festival Foundation shared the photographic record of the day, emphasizing the relevance of this act: “Every April 30, in Alfonso López Square in Valledupar, the miracle of the Virgin of the Rosary is staged. In this religious representation, indigenous people, Spaniards, and the Virgin participate, recreating the historical event that gave rise to the Festival and that keeps our culture and tradition alive.”
From Sicarare to the square: the legend that transformed hatred into reconciliation
The staging revived the tragedy of the cacica Francisca, whose humiliation triggered the attack of the Tupes and Cariaciles tribes. The most emotional moment was the recreation of what happened at the Sicarare Lagoon, where the barbasco threatened extermination. There, according to legend, the image of the Virgin of the Rosary appeared, who with her staff restored life to the fallen and transformed hatred into reconciliation. A young member of the congregation represented the Virgin, carrying the staff with which, according to tradition, she restored life to those poisoned by barbasco. The Spanish Guard, under the command of Captain Antonio Suárez de Flórez, paraded carrying the banner that symbolizes European presence during the events of the conquest.
The spiritual pillar of the Festival
While in other parts of the city the competition for the Vallenato King crown heats up, the staging of the Miracle reminded that the Festival exists to honor this legend. With this act, Valledupar closes the spiritual cycle of its festival and prepares for the grand finals at the Consuelo Araujonoguera Vallenato Legend Park, carrying with it the blessing of the “Patron Saint” who, according to history, saved the city from its disappearance. The tradition beats strong in every accordion, but also in the collective memory of a people that does not forget its roots.
Original source: elpilon.com.co (published on May 1, 2026)
