Virxe da Franqueira Pilgrimage in A Cañiza

Celebration date

The main day is 8 September, the Nativity of the Virgin Mary. The novena usually begins in late August and the central celebrations run from 7 to 9 September.

See the 2026 Romería da Franqueira programme.

Venue

The pilgrimage takes place at the Santuario de Nosa Señora da Franqueira, in the parish of A Franqueira in A Cañiza, Pontevedra. Liturgical celebrations, processions and the principal traditional events start around the sanctuary.

A major Marian pilgrimage

Devotion to the Virxe da Franqueira draws parish communities, families and pilgrims arriving on foot or by road. The pilgrimage is recognised as a Festival of Tourist Interest of Galicia and retains a strong religious and popular character.

Events and traditions

• Novena, rosary, Masses and opportunities for reconciliation beforehand.
• A torchlight procession on the eve of the feast.
• Solemn Mass and a procession with the Virxe da Franqueira on 8 September.
• Traditional dances and the mouro e o cristián drama beside the sanctuary.
• Celebrations on 9 September and the later festa dos poxos, linked to charitable fundraising.

Taking part

Attendance is particularly high on the eve and on 8 September. Visitors should check current times, plan their journey and follow access instructions around the sanctuary. Galician names for the devotion and events are retained because they are official proper names.

Sources

• Diocese of Tui-Vigo: Virxe da Franqueira celebrations.
• A Cañiza Council: 2026 summer programme.
• A Cañiza Council: Verán de Lecer 2026 programme.

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