Briones

Ascent to Calvary

Calvary Day in Briones: Faith, Tradition and Flavor in the Heart of La Rioja. Briones maintains its traditions with strength. Among all of them, Calvary Day stands out as one of the most emotional and authentic days of the calendar. It is a day when time seems to stand still and the town becomes one voice. The Road to Calvary. The day begins at 11:00 am in the Plaza de España. The bustle of the neighbors marks the beginning of a rite that is transmitted from parents to children. The protagonism falls on the smallest: the children dressed as Capuchins. With an astonishing solemnity, the children carry the crosses along a kilometer and a half of procession, depositing each one in its corresponding station of the Via Crucis. Meanwhile, the sound of bells and liturgical chants envelop the march, creating an atmosphere of respect and pride for the Brion identity. Arrival at Calvary. The Luncheon of the Vera Cruz After the ascent, the effort is rewarded. Here, the Brotherhood of the Vera Cruz acts as hostess, keeping alive a centuries-old tradition of hospitality. Lunch is the social heart of the day, composed of two fundamental pillars of our vigil gastronomy: Zurracapote: A liquid jewel made with wine macerated with lemon, cinnamon, orange and sugar. A recipe that every family keeps with zeal. Queso Fresco (fresh cheese): The ideal accompaniment, soft and restorative, which is shared among those attending under the Riojan sky. La Cuadrilla: The Soul of Briones. But Calvary Day cannot be understood without the cuadrillas. After the detail of the Brotherhood, groups of friends and families gather for the picnic lunch. It is the moment to open the backpacks and share the vigil sandwich, while contemplating the horizon of vineyards that embraces the village. It is a day of reunions, of shared laughter and of returning to the village with a renewed spirit. In Briones, the Day of Calvary reminds us that we are the result of those who were there before and the promise of those who today, dressed as Capuchins, learn to love their land. Information of interest for the visitor: Date: Good Friday (Easter). Meeting point: Plaza de Briones, 11:00 am. Distance: 1.5 km (low difficulty route, suitable for families). Recommendations: Wear comfortable shoes and, of course, snack to enjoy the day.