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Elise Kulmala

Nov 12

Feria del Rosario, Fuengirola Malaga: A Journey Back in Time and Atmosphere

What is Feria del Rosario?

Feria del Rosario is one of the largest and most traditional festivals in Fuengirola, held annually in October at the city’s fairgrounds. The celebration is dedicated to the Virgin of the Rosary (Virgen del Rosario), Fuengirola’s patron saint. This feria is an important religious and cultural event for the locals but also attracts numerous visitors from nearby areas and beyond.

The roots of Feria del Rosario date back to the 18th century when the people of Fuengirola began celebrating the harvest season while honoring their patron saint. Over the years, the feria has grown increasingly grand and has become a source of pride for the city’s residents. Today, the festival is filled with music, dance, food, and beautiful traditional costumes, bringing vibrant color and joy to the city streets.

The Feria as an Experience

As I walked to the large fairgrounds in the center of Fuengirola during Feria del Rosario, it felt like I had traveled back in time. Horses walked calmly through the fairgrounds, and horse-drawn carriages paraded proudly, as if they were part of an unforgettable, timeless spectacle. The area was filled with the rhythms of flamenco music, and the smiles of the people were as bright as the sun, which shone gently over autumnal Spain.

The heart of the celebration was undoubtedly the traditional attire. The women were dressed in beautiful flamenco dresses that swirled like flower petals in dance. Large roses adorned their hair, and traditional jewelry hung from their earrings, completing their classic beauty. The men looked elegant in their traditional Andalusian outfits, which included hats and beautifully tailored jackets. Each person had their own role in this cultural stage, which seemed to live and breathe the past.

I photographed the horses, carriages, and people. The images captured sincere joy and warmth. The horses were majestic, and their gait was calm yet purposeful, as if they too were aware of the significance of the event. The moments I was able to capture through my camera lens told a story of the past, where traditions and community were at the heart of everything.

Through the lens of my camera, I caught a glimpse of a world filled with joy and a piece of Spain’s history. The images of horse-drawn carriages, traditional attire, and the warm interactions between people tell the story that makes Feria del Rosario so special. It’s an experience that transports you to another time and place.