Historian Jesús Pozuelo has been tasked with opening the Velá de San Joaquín and Santa Ana in Altozano de Triana. The proclamation has been dedicated to the traditions and the memory of those who have preserved the identity of the neighbourhood.
The Velá de San Joaquín and Santa Ana, one of the most emblematic festivals in Seville, kicked off this Tuesday with the proclamation by historian Jesús Pozuelo in Altozano. The event, which brought together locals and visitors, served to reclaim the roots of Triana and pay tribute to key figures in the preservation of its cultural legacy.
A proclamation with a taste of tradition and devotion
During his speech, Pozuelo recalled that the Velá was born centuries ago as a celebration of gratitude around the Royal Parish of Santa Ana. Before the booths and lanterns, the festival was linked to prayers, bells, and the devotion to Santa Ana, protector of this historic riverside, pottery and flamenco neighbourhood.
The speaker highlighted that Triana cannot be explained, it must be lived, defining the neighbourhood as a particular way of understanding Seville, of walking, talking, singing, and loving. Every summer, the Velá allows numerous Triana residents living away to return to the streets of their childhood to reconnect with their roots.
Tribute to Emilio Jiménez Díaz
One of the most emotional moments was the remembrance of Emilio Jiménez Díaz, a speaker, writer, and flamencologist who passed away last year. His work as a researcher contributed to preserving the history of the neighbourhood through books, lectures, and documentaries. “Those who truly love Triana never completely leave,” it was noted during the tribute.
The choice of Jesús Pozuelo as the speaker represents a commitment to the preservation of collective memory. Born in Triana, Pozuelo was more familiar with the communal courtyards and family stories than with university archives. He grew up listening to the tales of his mother, aunts, and grandmother, La Pola, who ran a kiosk for many years on the streets of San Jacinto and Rodrigo de Triana.
A career dedicated to historical heritage
Trained in Historical Heritage, Pozuelo has dedicated over thirteen years to disseminating the history of Seville, with special attention to the transformations of Triana, its streets, its residents, and its old courtyards. He has created the Ispavilia project and has participated in numerous articles, lectures, documentaries, and collaborations on radio and television.
For those from Madrid visiting Seville these days, the Velá offers a unique opportunity to immerse themselves in Triana culture. The City Council of Seville has activated a special municipal services device and has extended the hours of the outdoor terraces. Additionally, the traditional greasy pole contest will be held at the zapata on Calle Betis.
The programme will run until Sunday, July 26, the feast day of San Joaquín and Santa Ana. Those who come can enjoy cultural and sports activities and, of course, the gastronomy and atmosphere that make this evening an unmissable event of the Seville summer.
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