The Sijena Sí Platform, the Order of Malta, the Hospitaller Sisters of St. John, the town councils of Villanueva de Sijena, Sena, Sariñena and El Tormillo, together with other collaborating organizations, are calling the fifth edition of the "Sijena Viva" Pilgrimage. The event aims to give anyone who wishes the opportunity to follow the ancient Way of St James that passed through Sijena and pray in the very heart of the monastery.
For six years, these organizations have been fighting to restore Sijena to the religious status it deserves. The pilgrimage, which reaches its fifth edition this Saturday, aims to serve as a platform for reviving a historic religious congregation. The Sijena Sí Platform already sent more than 3,000 signatures to the Vatican in 2022, asking the Pope not to let Sijena fall into oblivion.
SCHEDULE
The day will begin with a 26-kilometer circular horseback pilgrimage starting from the monastery itself, and a 17-kilometer walking pilgrimage from the Chapel of Santiago in Sariñena to the Monastery of Sijena. Both groups will meet in Sena at 12:00 p.m., where those unable to walk that far will join them. Meanwhile, those arriving directly by car will be able to take guided tours of the exhibition area in Sijena, although tickets must be booked on the Sijena website.
After the pilgrims arrive, at around 1:00 p.m., a sung Mass will be held to pray for the return of monastic life to the convent. Following the group photograph, attendees will be able to take part in a communal paella, for which prior registration is required. After lunch, a concert organized by the EsperanzARTE Association will take place, featuring Neshamá, Pedro Andrés Pérez and a performance by the clown Kikote.
The day will end with hot chocolate and a gathering hosted by the Villanueva de Sijena Town Council. All activities are free of charge and open to everyone. Those wishing to join the paella must purchase tickets on the Sijena Si website.
