Costa Rica News – Cartago was alive for the occasion of the return of La Negrita. Hundreds of the faithful participated in preparing elaborate floral passages to adorn the return of the Virgen de los angeles to la basilica.
They worked through the night and early morning through the cold to cover the asphalt of central avenue with an extensive carpet made of flowers and other decorations for the procession on Sunday.
Nineteen parishes were involved in the art that extends almost two kilometers from the catedral de Santiago Apóstol where she was housed for about a month. Also involved were the Fire Department, officers of the Air Surveillance Service and the Airport Police of Costa Rica.
The carpets show images of the Virgin, hearts, Jesus, geometric figures and even designs from recycled plastic. This tradition goes back 25 years. Florists donate flowers. People dye sawdust. Others arrange the designs. Some of the groups plan their designs six months in advance.