Basilica of Our Lady of the Forsaken

Welcome to the home of the Virgen de los Desamparados, Patron Saint of València. Valencians affectionately call her “la Geperudeta” (“the Little Hunchback”) because of the slightly bowed posture of her image. At any time of the year, faithful of all ages come to this temple to offer their prayers, gratitude and devotion.

Built in the 17th century in Baroque style, the Basilica presides over Plaza de la Virgen, one of the most photographed spots in Valencia. If you look at it from the outside, you will notice that its dome is not centred but closer to the Cathedral. Inside, you will find the image of the Virgin in a chapel, a small room specially built for her behind the altar.

Why visit the Basilica of the Virgen de los Desamparados

✓ Join the locals in a moment of reflection or prayer before the Geperudeta

✓ It is a magnificent example of Baroque religious architecture

✓ It features an impressive fresco by Antonio Palomino inside

✓ Its chapel is one of the first built in Spain

What to see in the Basilica of the Virgen de los Desamparados

✓ The chapel and the Virgin

The venerated 15th-century image of the Virgin wears a striking mantle that changes depending on the occasion. It was originally created as a reclining figure, with her head resting on a pillow, hence her inclination. If you would like to admire her up close, you can access the chapel via a staircase.

✓ Palomino’s frescoes 

Don’t forget to look up as well. The magnificent dome is decorated with frescoes by the famous artist from Córdoba, Antonio Palomino. It depicts the Virgin pleading for the forsaken before the Holy Trinity.

✓ Marian Museum

Inside the Basilica, a museum dedicated to the Virgin houses a wide variety of objects and works by great masters. Among others, you will find paintings, sculptures, engravings, ceramics, goldsmith pieces, furniture and devotional offerings, as well as the founding documents of the temple. Access to the museum is through the door on Plaza de l’Almoina.

✓ Feast of the Virgen de los Desamparados

On the second Sunday of May, Valencians celebrate the day of their Patron Saint with a special programme of events around the Basilica. Traditional dances and fireworks add colour to the solemn liturgical celebrations. The highlight is the transfer of the image of the Virgin to the Cathedral, in an emotional procession that awakens local fervour.

✓ Fallas flower offering

In Plaza de la Virgen, next to the Basilica, one of the most emblematic events of Las Fallas comes to an end: the flower offering. On 17 and 18 March, more than 100,000 Valencians dressed in traditional attire parade through the city and bring their bouquets here. With them, a spectacular mantle—different every year—is created for the gigantic image of the Virgin erected in the square. It remains on display for three to five more days, depending on the condition of the flowers, so that you can admire it up close.

Save on your ticket with the Valencia Tourist Card

Save on your visit! Visit Valencia’s most iconic monuments at a discount.