Virgin of the Big Eyes

Patron saint of Lugo

Our Lady of the Big Eyes (Saint Mary of Lugo) is the patron saint of the city of Lugo and one of the oldest Marian devotions in Spain. Historically, she is documented as the principal patron saint of Lugo Cathedral and the city itself. The image is ancient, traditionally considered very old, although its exact date is unknown. The claim that she is "one of the oldest Marian devotions in Spain" is based on tradition.

Main data

Origin and history

Our Lady of the Big Eyes (Saint Mary of Lugo) is the patron saint of the city of Lugo and one of the oldest Marian devotions in Spain. Historically, she is documented as the principal patron saint of Lugo Cathedral and the city itself. The image is ancient, traditionally considered very old, although its exact date is unknown. The claim that she is "one of the oldest Marian devotions in Spain" is based on tradition.

The image and the sanctuary

The image is venerated in the Cathedral of Santa María in Lugo, dedicated to this Marian devotion. The image depicts Mary as the Virgin of the Milk, breastfeeding the Child or immediately after having done so. According to local tradition, "Alfonso VI, Queen Urraca, and many others attest to having witnessed the many miracles"; there are also accounts of numerous healings attributed to the Virgin through the use of oil from the lamps that burned before her altar. These anecdotes stem from pious tradition, not from strictly historical documents.

Sponsorship and coronation

She is the patron saint of the city of Lugo. The date of her canonical coronation is not recorded in the available sources, which highlight the importance of the devotion but do not provide any information about the coronation.

Party and devotion

The main festival is celebrated on August 15th. Devotion to the Virgin of the Big Eyes is deeply rooted in Lugo, centered around its cathedral and the tradition of favors and healings attributed to her intercession.

Link to the Rosary

There is no evidence that this Marian devotion has a specific or unique connection with the recitation of the Rosary beyond general Marian devotion; the sources consulted do not mention it.