THE PURIFICÁS. SANTIAGO DEL CAMPO, TALAVÁN, HINOJAL AND MONROY

Date: 2 February

Santiago del Campo, Talaván, Hinojal and Monroy make up the so-called Four Places.

The Purificás group is made up of nine youths chosen by the church superintendent who wear the traditional sombre clothing during the rite. The ceremony begins with a procession around the church in which those taking part carry lit candles. The andas are transported by four of the Purificás. The same people then carry the image to the high altar to place the figure of Baby Jesus in it.

Photo: The purified in procession at the time of departure from the temple

At the moment of the offertory, the Purificás who remain outside the temple sing, requesting permission to enter. Once it is given, they go in and sing popular verses. One carries a tambourine, three more carry doves and the fifth holds the pastry roll given by a neighbour who pays the Purificá. This roll, made from flour, eggs, sugar and honey, is decorated with a branch to which legal bank notes are pinned.