Valencia Cathedral Revives Unique Marian Drama

The Valencia Cathedral has brought back a unique performance known as the «Mystery of the Assumption of the Virgin.» This event is part of the church’s festivities for the Marian solemnity celebrated on August 15.

Father Álvaro Almenar, a canon of the cathedral, hopes this revival will help Catholics gain a deeper understanding of the belief that Mary was taken to heaven after her earthly life. He described the performance as a small form of catechesis, aiming to clarify the mystery of Mary’s assumption.

For several centuries, this play was not performed inside the cathedral. It was banned after a synod in 1631 prohibited dramatic acts in churches. However, after five years of research, the project was brought back to life with the help of a cultural association called Grup de Mecha.

The Aug. 13 reenactment is categorized as an «auto sacramental,» a type of drama steeped in Catholic tradition. Fourteen actors from Grup de Mecha portrayed key figures including Mary, the Twelve Apostles, and an angel across six scenes with musical interludes.

Roberto Bermell, the vice president of Grup de Mecha, explained that the aim is to preserve and promote Valencia’s rich cultural and religious traditions. The performance attracted thousands of spectators, marking the start of the city’s annual religious celebrations.

Next year’s performance promises to feature an enriched musical composition that reflects the 15th-century musical heritage of Spain, making it even more special for attendees.