La Velá de Santa Ana (Sleepless Night in honour of Santa Ana)

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The Velá de Triana in honour of Santa Ana is the oldest festivity in Seville. It originated in the 13th century, when King Alfonso X, had an eye disease, for which he entrusted himself to the Virgin, making a promise that if he was cured, he would build a temple in honour of Santa Ana. Works began in 1266.

This festival became a tradition for the residents of Triana and Seville, who came to the church to watch over the Virgin during the night, on the eve of 26 July. Although the beginning was of a religious nature, it became more popular, accompanied by dancing and singing at the doors of some houses.

The Velá was hald in the temple, in its surroundings and, specially, by the river. In fact, for centuries, the River Guadalquivir was the setting where the main activities of the Velá took place.

The old Velá was very different from the one we know today, being a little more of one-century old, which was established at the beginning of the 20th century. From this new stage of the festival, it must be highlighted the Cucaña (greasy pole), which entered the programme in 1910, a tradition that has remained intact since its introduction, in which young people have to challenge a slippery wooden pole to reach the flag at the end of it.

Approximate date

14-19 July

Eventos

Velá de Santiago y Santa Ana 2023

Velá de Santiago y Santa Ana 2021