Las Candelarias: Origin of tradition

The celebration of Santa Candelaria with bonfires in southern Spain has deep roots in ancient religious and pagan traditions. Its origin combines elements of Christianity with previous customs, related to purification, light and the agricultural cycle.

Origins of the Candlemas Festival

The festival of the Virgin of Candelaria, celebrated on February 2, commemorates the presentation of Jesus in the temple and the purification of the Virgin Mary, according to Catholic tradition. Its name comes from the “candela” or light, symbolizing protection against darkness.

However, this Christian holiday overlapped with older rituals. In many European cultures there were celebrations at this time of year related to fire and renewal, marking the transition between winter and spring.

Bonfires and the Use of Olive Branch

In several towns in southern Spain, especially in Andalusia, the holiday is celebrated with bonfires lit on the eve of February 2. These bonfires can have different meanings depending on the area:

Purification and protection: Fire symbolizes the light of Christ and purifies the home and community.

End of winter and agricultural preparation: The remains of olive tree pruning (olive branch) are removed, marking the beginning of the new agricultural cycle.

Community ritual: The bonfire brings the community together, strengthening local identity and maintaining ancestral traditions.

The olive branch, which is the woody part left over from the pruning of the olive tree, is used in these bonfires because it is an abundant material in the olive-growing areas of southern Spain. Its burning may be related both to the disposal of agricultural waste and to ancient renovation and protection practices.

In some places, in addition to the bonfires, processions, songs and popular gatherings take place around the fire.

Conclusion

The burning of bonfires with olive branches during the Candelaria festival in southern Spain is a tradition that mixes Christian and pre-Christian elements. The fire symbolizes purification and protection, while the use of the olive branch is linked to the agricultural economy and the end of winter. It is a custom that strengthens the cultural identity of the people and remains alive in many Andalusian communities.