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Today, as Spain marks its national holiday, the Día de la Hispanidad, the country’s Guardia Civil are also celebrating something more personal, the feast day of their patron saint, the Virgen del Pilar. The date brings together two long standing traditions that have shared this calendar slot for generations.

 

The Virgen del Pilar holds a particular place in Spanish religious history. According to tradition, the Virgin Mary appeared to the Apostle James in Zaragoza in AD 40, said to be the only recorded instance of her bilocating while still living on Earth. A wooden image commemorating the apparition remains enshrined at the Cathedral-Basilica of Our Lady of the Pillar in Zaragoza, a site that’s drawn pilgrims since Pope Callixtus III granted indulgences to visitors back in 1456.

 

She’s recognised today as the patroness of Aragon, of the wider Hispanic world, and of the Guardia Civil itself, with her feast day falling on the same date as Spain’s National Day.

 

President Pedro Sánchez marked the occasion with a message of thanks to the force. “My recognition to all the men and women who are part of the Guardia Civil,” he wrote. “Thank you for your dedication and commitment in every service, from missions abroad to the smallest post. You are an example of courage and commitment. Happy Guardia Civil Day!”

 

The Guardia Civil itself shared a reflective message on the meaning behind the uniform. “Behind every uniform there is a person. Behind every operation, a vocation,” the force wrote. “On the roads, in the mountains, at sea, in every investigation and in every corner of Spain. Different specialities, thousands of stories and one shared commitment: to always be there when we’re needed. Today we celebrate what unites us. Happy feast day of our Patroness, the Virgen del Pilar!”

 

The Policía Nacional also sent their congratulations to colleagues across the two forces. “Two uniforms and the same way of feeling that vocation,” they posted. “Today we congratulate our colleagues from the Guardia Civil on the day of their Patroness, and we celebrate with them everything that unites us. A shared commitment to citizens and a brotherhood that shows itself every day.”

 

The day has drawn attention beyond Spain’s borders too. EUROGENDFOR, the European Gendarmerie Force, extended its own congratulations, describing the occasion as one of “significant cultural and historical importance for Spain, symbolising unity and devotion,” while thanking Guardia Civil members and Spanish citizens alike for their dedication and service.

 

As most of Spain enjoys the public holiday, with businesses, banks and post offices closed, this year’s date falls on a Monday, creating a four day puente weekend for many. For the Guardia Civil though, today is as much about recognising those who serve as it is a day off, a quiet nod to the thousands who, as their own message put it, are there whenever they’re needed.

 

 

Image: Policia Nacional/X.com