Local place of worship
Welcome to the home of the Virgen de los Desamparados, Patron Saint of València. Valencians affectionately call her “la Geperudeta” (“the Little Hunchback”) due to the slightly stooped posture depicted in her image. Thoughout the year, worshippers of all ages come to this church to offer their prayers, thanks 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 small chapel 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. The entrance 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 Virgin's image to the cathedral, in a deeply moving procession that draws huge local interest.
- 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 with 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. These are used to create a spectacular covering, which is different every year, for the giant statue of the Virgin erected in the square. It remains on display for a further three to five days, depending on the condition of the flowers, so you can go and admire it up close.
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