Feast of Our Lady of Covadonga

Nuestra Señora de Covadonga,
ora pro nobis

September 8th, coinciding with the Nativity of the Virgin Mary, is the Feast of Our Lady of Covadonga (Spanish: Nuestra Señora de Covadonga), Patroness of Asturias and Mother of Spain’s Reconquista. According to tradition, in the early 8th century, the Virgin Mary interceded on behalf of Don Pelayo (Pelagius), the first King of Asturias, and his army during the Battle of Covadonga on May 28th, 722. This clash in the mountains of Asturias marked the first major Christian victory over the Moors after the Islamic conquest of the Iberian Peninsula, and is often regarded as the symbolic beginning of the Reconquista.

At Covadonga, in a cave high in the Picos de Europa mountains, Pelayo and his men are said to have taken refuge. Legend holds that a small image of the Virgin Mary, kept there by the faithful, miraculously protected the defenders. The Muslims’ arrows and stones were said to turn back against them, ensuring Christian victory. In gratitude, Pelayo dedicated the site to the Virgin. Over the centuries, the cave became a destination of pilgrimage.

Today, the Sanctuary of Covadonga includes both the Holy Cave (Santa Cueva)—where the diminutive statue of Our Lady resides—and a grand basilica built in the 19th century (dedicated on September 7th, 1901).

Our Lady of Covadonga is venerated as the Patroness of Asturias. Locally, she is affectionately called La Santina (“the little holy one”), a title that conveys both intimacy and reverence. More than a local devotion, she has become a symbol of resilience, faith, and the rebirth of Christian Spain. For many, she embodies the maternal figure who watches over the Spanish people in their struggles and triumphs. Thus, the story of Covadonga intertwines Marian devotion with the very identity of Spain’s Christian monarchy and cultural heritage.

In celebration of her feast, we offer this prayer:

Prayer to Our Lady of Covadonga

Gracious Mother, Our Lady of Covadonga, I come before you with a humble heart, seeking your intercession and guidance. You, who miraculously aided King Pelayo in his battle against the enemies of the faith, I ask for your powerful protection against the temptations that beset me in my daily life. Help me, dearest Mother, to recognize the snares of the evil one and to resist them with courage and perseverance. May I remain steadfast in my faith, drawing strength from your love and devotion to our Lord, Jesus Christ. In my moments of doubt and despair, remind me of the sanctuary in the beautiful valley of Covadonga, where countless faithful have sought solace and hope in your loving embrace. I place my trust in you, Our Lady of Covadonga, and I pray that you will be my refuge and my strength. Amen.