Hermitage of the Virgin of Otero

Later, it became the parish church of Martín Valero, a town that disappeared in the Peninsular War due to the looting and severe damage it suffered during the French invasion, especially in the Battle of Arapiles, as it was the actual scene of the retreat of soldiers, many of whom are buried in its cemetery.

It then became part of Palomares, a hamlet of Alba de Tormes, now depopulated. It currently belongs to the parish of San Pedro de Alba.

The Hermitage of the Virgin of Otero is located on the high part of a hill on the left bank of the Tormes River, 2 kilometers from Alba de Tormes. It is a privileged spot from which magnificent panoramic views of the Tormes valley and the ducal town can be seen.

Of simple and humble construction, made of slate and brick, the hermitage is surrounded by the Palomares cemetery, and a picnic area has been built on the esplanade in front of it. It is usually closed, opening only on festivals, most notably the pilgrimage on the first Monday of September, as well as for worship in the month of May.

On Sundays in May, a Mass is celebrated at 6 p.m., leaving the church small enough to accommodate the dozens of faithful who come to the site. The descendants of Palomares are always present, along with a large group of Albanese residents who feel a true devotion to the Virgin of Otero. Thus, throughout the month, the women’s group, the catechism group, members of the Miraculous Medal group, and the schools find time to climb the hilltop on pilgrimage and honor the Virgin.

Since ancient times, a popular pilgrimage has been celebrated on the afternoon of the first Monday of September, which ascends to the hermitage. It is characterized, fundamentally, by the watermelon consumed in its surroundings, and the “keys of Otero,” which some of the Alba confectioners still make.