The image of the Virgen de los Desamparados paraded through the streets of Xàbia
The image is the patroness of Valencia and was carried on the shoulders of the devoted.
Late Saturday afternoon, the image of the Virgen de los Desamparados – the Virgin of the Forsaken – was carried in solemn procession through the streets from the Augustinian Convent Church to the church of San Bartolomé in the heart of the historic centre.
The recently restored image of the Virgin Mary was carried through the streets accompanied by a large number of faithful. Along the way, local residents showed their affection for the Virgin, decorating the route with floral carpets and throwing petals from balconies as the sacred image passed.
The Virgen de los Desamparados is the patroness of Valencia and one of seven patrons of the Autonomous communities of Spain. Her posture is characterized by a slight forward tilt, and she is known affectionately as the “Geperudeta” – the hunchback – of València. Her feast day is the second Sunday in May and the Valencian people gather in the Plaza de la Virgen in the capital of the region, located right next to the basilica which houses the image, to pay their respects and then enjoy music from the municipal band, fireworks over the Torres de Serrano and traditional dancing.
