Our Lady of the Virtues of Villena

Marian Invocation of Villena (Comunitat Valenciana)

Our Lady of Virtues -La Morenica- is the patron of Villena, city of the Vinalopó Medio, and one of the most venerated Marian claims in the province of Alicante. The origin of devotion dates back to the 15th century, in the first years of the Christian repopulation of the territory. According to tradition, the image was found in the field by pastors or laborers, the usual typology of medieval Marian advocations. The existence of the sanctuary has been documented since the 15th century and its importance as a place of pilgrimage has transcended the municipal context: the Virgin of Virtues is venerated throughout the region of the Vinalopó and in adjacent localities of Albacete and Murcia.

Main data

Origin and history

Our Lady of Virtues -La Morenica- is the patron of Villena, city of the Vinalopó Medio, and one of the most venerated Marian claims in the province of Alicante. The origin of devotion dates back to the 15th century, in the first years of the Christian repopulation of the territory. According to tradition, the image was found in the field by pastors or laborers, the usual typology of medieval Marian advocations. The existence of the sanctuary has been documented since the 15th century and its importance as a place of pilgrimage has transcended the municipal context: the Virgin of Virtues is venerated throughout the region of the Vinalopó and in adjacent localities of Albacete and Murcia.

Image and sanctuary

The image is kept in the Sanctuary of Our Lady of Virtueslocated on the outskirts of Villena, next to a host for pilgrims. The temple was extended and reformed in different periods. In 2022-2023 the Jubilee Year of the Centenary of the first coronation was celebrated, with acts of special solemnity.

Canonical coronation: 6 September 1923.

Sponsorship and coronation

Patrona de Villena. First canonical coronation on September 6, 1923; second solemn coronation on 6 September 1948, presided over by Bishop Michael of the Saints Diaz and Gumara.

Party and devotion

The employers' parties are held at first weekend of Septemberwith a solemn transfer of the image from the sanctuary to the city and back.

Link to the Rosary

The Sanctuary of Virtues is a privileged place for the prayer of the Rosary. The local pilgrimages include the meditation of mysteries, especially in September during the holidays.