Our Lady of Coromoto, the Virgen de Coromoto, is one of the most cherished religious figures in Venezuela. Declared Patroness of Venezuela, she is a source of faith and hope for millions of Venezuelans at home and around the world. In this article, we share her story, her feast day and the meaning of her 18K gold medal.
The Story of the Virgen de Coromoto
When the city of Guanare was founded in 1591, the local Cospes people, led by their chief Coromoto, fled to the forest to avoid evangelization. According to tradition, in 1651 the Virgin Mary appeared to the chief and asked him and his people to be baptized. On September 8, 1652, she appeared again inside his hut. When the chief resisted and tried to seize her, she vanished, leaving behind a tiny image of herself. The image led many to faith, and the chief himself was baptized before his death.
The National Sanctuary in Guanare
That small image is preserved today in the National Sanctuary of Our Lady of Coromoto in Guanare, where pilgrims come to ask for her intercession for peace, health and their families. St. John Paul II visited the sanctuary in 1996.
Patroness of Venezuela and Her Feast Day
Our Lady of Coromoto was declared Patroness of Venezuela in 1942, and her image was crowned in 1952. Her feast is celebrated every year on September 11, with Masses, processions and pilgrimages to Guanare. She is usually shown seated, with a crown and the Child Jesus on her lap, a symbol of maternal love and care for all who seek her help.
The Meaning of a Virgen de Coromoto Medal
For many Venezuelan families, especially those living far from home, wearing a Virgen de Coromoto medal is a way to carry their faith and their roots close to the heart. At Amalia Jewelry, we honor this tradition with 18K gold medals of Our Lady of Coromoto. The Our Lady of Coromoto medal in 11mm and 13mm is small and light, perfect for babies and children, while the 18mm medal and the mother of pearl Coromoto medal are beautiful for adults. Each one is a meaningful gift for a baptism, a First Communion or her September 11 feast.
Frequently Asked Questions
When is the feast of the Virgen de Coromoto?
Her feast is celebrated every year on September 11, the anniversary of the crowning of her image in 1952. She was declared Patroness of Venezuela in 1942.
Where is the Virgen de Coromoto venerated?
Her small original image is kept in the National Sanctuary of Our Lady of Coromoto in Guanare, in Portuguesa state. Venezuelan families around the world, including many in South Florida, keep her devotion alive in their homes and parishes.
Which Coromoto medal size is best for a baby?
The 11 mm and 13 mm medals are small and light, ideal for babies and children. For adults, the 18 mm medal and the mother of pearl Coromoto medal are popular choices.
Explore our full collection of 18K gold saint and religious medals, and discover the story of Our Lady of Guadalupe, Patroness of the Americas.
