At 17:00 hours, as tradition dictates (with the exception of the year 2000, which began its march at 12:00 hours, with the sardine being burnt at 17:00 hours), the funeral procession began its journey from the Bar el Ganadero, led by the carnival authorities, masqueraders and carnival groups.

Organized by the Peña La Cabra, the parade has made its usual route through the streets of the town, which as usual were very crowded.

Mrs. Sardine pays homage to the carnival monument

As the funeral procession passed through the Spain Square, Mrs Sardine and the authorities showed their respect and paid the appropriate honours to the monument made up of the figures of the Mascarona and the Alhiguí.

At the end of this peculiar burial, the purifying fire blessed the lifeless bodies of the unfortunate sardines. Later, at the Goat Peña church, the mourners’ sorrows were quenched with a good glass of lemonade and some delicious grilled sardines.

Rest in Peace, at least, until next year.