La Sobarriba: Land of deep roots and infinite horizons.
The Brotherhood of Saint Eugenia, also known as Las Capas Pardas (The Brown Cloaks), is based in Paradilla de la Sobarriba, a picturesque village nestled in one of the rare valleys of the austere La Sobarriba plain. With statutes dating back to the 16th century, the brotherhood is distinguished by the traditional attire of its members: dark trousers and vest, white shirt, a wide-brimmed black hat, and a long brown cloak made of thick wool (estameña).
The Brotherhood of Saint Eugenia, also known as Las Capas Pardas (The Brown Cloaks), is based in Paradilla de la Sobarriba, a picturesque village nestled in one of the rare valleys of the austere La Sobarriba plain. With statutes dating back to the 16th century, the brotherhood is distinguished by the traditional attire of its members: dark trousers and vest, white shirt, a wide-brimmed black hat, and a long brown cloak made of thick wool (estameña).
The main celebration in honour of Saint Eugenia, the brotherhood’s patron saint, takes place on January 31st. Festivities begin the evening before with a gathering in the church and liturgical chants, during which members sign in their attendance. On the day itself, a solemn mass is held, followed by a procession through the streets of Paradilla. At the head marches the brotherhood’s insignia, followed by the abbots bearing their staffs and the cofrades walking with stately composure. The day concludes with a communal meal that reinforces the bonds of fellowship.
Beyond its patronal feast, the Brotherhood of Saint Eugenia actively participates in significant events in both the region and the provincial capital. On Palm Sunday, for example, the brotherhoods of the old Hermandad de La Sobarriba, including Las Capas Pardas, take part in the “Dainos” procession in León. The event begins with the recitation of the Salve Regina before the cross in Plaza del Grano, then proceeds toward the Church of San Francisco el Real Extramuros, accompanied by traditional musicians and weaving through the emblematic streets of the city.
The Brotherhood of Saint Eugenia is not limited to religious celebrations. It also seeks to provide material and spiritual support among its members, offer economic assistance to those in need, and enhance religious observance in both the region and the city of León. In this way, the Brown Cloaks procession in La Sobarriba remains a living expression of tradition and cultural identity, reflecting a devotion and communal spirit that have endured through the centuries.
The main celebration in honour of Saint Eugenia, the brotherhood’s patron saint, takes place on January 31st. Festivities begin the evening before with a gathering in the church and liturgical chants, during which members sign in their attendance. On the day itself, a solemn mass is held, followed by a procession through the streets of Paradilla. At the head marches the brotherhood’s insignia, followed by the abbots bearing their staffs and the cofrades walking with stately composure. The day concludes with a communal meal that reinforces the bonds of fellowship.
Beyond its patronal feast, the Brotherhood of Saint Eugenia actively participates in significant events in both the region and the provincial capital. On Palm Sunday, for example, the brotherhoods of the old Hermandad de La Sobarriba, including Las Capas Pardas, take part in the “Dainos” procession in León. The event begins with the recitation of the Salve Regina before the cross in Plaza del Grano, then proceeds toward the Church of San Francisco el Real Extramuros, accompanied by traditional musicians and weaving through the emblematic streets of the city.
The Brotherhood of Saint Eugenia is not limited to religious celebrations. It also seeks to provide material and spiritual support among its members, offer economic assistance to those in need, and enhance religious observance in both the region and the city of León. In this way, the Brown Cloaks procession in La Sobarriba remains a living expression of tradition and cultural identity, reflecting a devotion and communal spirit that have endured through the centuries.
Discover Sobrarriba through an unforgettable journey through its heritage, culture and landscapes. The Sobrarriba Cultural Route offers guided tours and detailed explanations at various points of interest, combining history, architecture, traditions and nature in a unique experience.
Each route is designed to suit different types of travellers: from walkers and cyclists to those who prefer horse riding or even hot air ballooning. Join us on a journey through time and delve into the secrets of a land that has witnessed centuries of history.
Discover Sobrarriba through an unforgettable journey through its heritage, culture and landscapes. The Sobrarriba Cultural Route offers guided tours and detailed explanations at various points of interest, combining history, architecture, traditions and nature in a unique experience.
Each route is designed to suit different types of travellers: from walkers and cyclists to those who prefer horse riding or even hot air ballooning. Join us on a journey through time and delve into the secrets of a land that has witnessed centuries of history.
