Have you noticed the serene structure before us? This is the Ermita de la Virgen de la Torre. It stands as a testament to centuries of devotion.
The Ermita de la Virgen de la Torre’s story begins with its location. The area was once known as “La Torre” or Torrepedrosa. Historical records trace these names back to the 13th century. This sacred place marks the spot where the original image of the Virgen de la Torre was discovered according to pious tradition.
The Virgen de la Torre holds a special place in the hearts of the people. Its roots run deep into the area’s medieval past. Before Vallecas existed a medieval site stood here. It bore names like la Torre del Campo and Torre del Pedroso. By the 18th century, locals referred to it as Torrepedrosa or la Torre del Campo. Finally in the 19th century, it became Torrepedrosa del Campo.
Devotion to Nuestra Señora la Virgen de la Torre spread far and wide. The church officially recognized this fervent following. The Imagen was crowned on September 17 in the year 2000. Cardinal Antonio María Rouco Varela the Archbishop of Madrid officiated.
Vallecas residents have a tradition spanning back to the 18th century. They celebrate at least two Romeras each year. These honor Nuestra Señora la Virgen de la Torre.
Today the Ermita hosts the celebration of Holy Mass every September. Festive events take place. In the afternoon a procession begins. The Imagen of their esteemed patron returns to the Parish of San Pedro Ad Vincula. This is in the Villa de Vallecas. Here it is venerated for eight months from autumn to spring. This event starts the religious celebrations. It marks the Patronal Festivals honoring the Virgen.
Additionally every second Sunday in May the traditional romera occurs. This marks the transfer of the Imagen to the Ermita. It’s called “la bajada” meaning the descent of the Virgen de la Torre. She remains there almost four months throughout the summer. Then the people return her to the Parish.
The Asociación pública de fieles Nuestra Señora Virgen de la Torre has its social headquarters in the Parish. The church canonically erected the asociación May 31 1988 A Holy Marian Year. Ángel Suquía Goicoechea Cardinal Archbishop of Madrid-Alcalá performed the honors.
The asociación’s main goal is to promote public worship. It acts in the Church’s name. It honors Nuestra Señora la Santísima Virgen María de la Torre. She is the patron saint of the Villa de Vallecas. The association undertakes acts of piety charity and outreach.
The Junta de Compensación de Los Berrocales is working to protect the Ermita. It aims to integrate it into the new Berrocales district. This includes the future Metropolitan Forest led by Madrid City Council.
Luis Cesteros gerente of Berrocales said something important. He said the Ermita de la Virgen de la Torre is popular. All Vallecas residents cherish it. It should be a vital space in Berrocales. It should remain a gathering place for the faithful. It has been so since at least the 15th century.
The title of Nuestra Señora de la Torre comes from the place name “La Torre.” Records show that the site existed as early as the 13th century. The “iglesia de la Torre” stood here in the 15th century. By the 16th century, it was connected to the “iglesia de Vallecas.” This created the Curato de Vallecas. The Ermita became a focal point of popular religion in the 17th century. The building was renovated in 1746. The Ermita stands about four kilometers from the Villa de Vallecas. It is on the Camino del Cristo de Rivas. This is also known as the old road of Vallecas.
The Romería de la Virgen de la Torre has been popular since the 18th century. The people move the imagen in May and September.
As you leave the Ermita reflect on its enduring legacy. It is a beacon of faith for the community. Its story continues to unfold with each passing year.