The Virgin of Chapi once again shows how catholic Peruvian people is and its powerful faith, that’s why about 200,000 pilgrims from various regions of the country and even from abroad, according to the local catholic authority, visit these days the sanctuary located in Polobaya, just over two hours from the city of Arequipa.
Although the main day of the Festival of the Virgin of Chapi is May 1, the activities last about three days, beginning on April 30, marking one of the most important spiritual gatherings in southern Peru.
“The feast of the Virgin of Chapi is one of the oldest religious ceremonies in Peru. The first record of its existence dates back to 1655, and by 1709, the image already had a legion of followers. Since then, this tradition has transformed alongside society and popular fervor”, explains Peru Travel, the official Tourism website of Peru.
For many believers, the pilgrimage to Chapi is a deeply personal act, and many of them walk for over ten hours across desert and rugged terrain to fulfill a promise or express gratitude for miracles attributed to the “Mamita de Chapi.”
Others pilgrims come simply to feel close to the Patroness of Arequipa, braving the cold and physical exhaustion as part of their devotion.
The main mass was held at 11:00 a.m. on Thursday, May 1, at the sanctuary's esplanade, presided over by Monsignor Raúl Chau, Auxiliary Bishop of Arequipa, and concelebrated by priests from the local archdiocese.
With tears and emotion, pilgrims took part in the homily, followed by a solemn procession of the image of the Virgin through the sanctuary grounds. In the afternoon, at 3:00 p.m., a farewell mass was held, culminating in a final procession scheduled for 4:30 p.m., in which the revered image was returned to the temple amid songs, prayers, and emotional farewells from the faithful.
Medical care for pilgrims
In parallel to the religious fervor, health and safety measures were reinforced through a coordinated effort by the Arequipa branch of the Red Cross, the Regional Health Office, and the Provincial Council.
As part of the “Operativo Chapi 2025” (Chapi 2025 Operation), more than 2,700 medical and family contact services were provided from April 29 through the early hours of May 1.
Volunteers installed three medical posts near the sanctuary to attend to pilgrims in need.
The Red Cross reports that its assistance included blood pressure monitoring, treatment of minor injuries caused by falls or abrasions, and first aid for cases of decompensation. Special attention was given to people with chronic conditions like diabetes and high blood pressure, with glucose checks and emergency transfers arranged when necessary.
Additionally, 21 families were able to reunite with missing relatives thanks to the family contact service operated on-site.
Municipal staff also played a crucial role. According to the Provincial Municipality of Arequipa, more than 400 pilgrims —both adults and children— received attention during the night of April 30 and the early morning of May 1.
Most cases were related to extreme fatigue, low temperatures, and falls due to the long and strenuous walk. Aid posts were strategically installed in key locations such as Siete Toldos and Escalerilla.
Local authorities confirmed that emergency personnel would remain in the area until the evening of May 1, as pilgrims continued arriving to participate in ongoing religious ceremonies.
The Sanctuary of the Virgin of Chapi remains a beacon of faith for thousands, a place where spiritual commitment meets communal solidarity.
Pilgrims left the site visibly moved, with gratitude in their hearts and a promise on their lips: to return again next year.
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(END) RMC/MAO/JMP/ MDV
Published: 5/2/2025