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Church · Porlamar, Nova Esparta
Basílica de Nuestra Señora del Valle
The sanctuary of the Virgem do Vale, patron saint of eastern Venezuela and of fishermen, in El Valle del Espíritu Santo, 5 km from Porlamar. The neo-Gothic church, pink and white, receives pilgrims year-round and holds a major festival on September 8.
Illustrative images. The pictures in this guide are illustrations based on the real place, not photographs, and may differ from it.
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About Basílica de Nuestra Señora del Valle
The Basílica de Nuestra Señora del Valle is located in El Valle del Espíritu Santo, one of Margarita's oldest villages, about 5 km north of Porlamar. It is the sanctuary of the Virgem do Vale, patroness of eastern Venezuela, of fishermen and sailors, and one of the country's most visited places of devotion.
The current church, in neo-Gothic style, was built between the late 19th and early 20th centuries, with a pink and white façade, two pointed towers and arched windows. It holds the title of minor basilica. Inside, the image of the Virgem, dressed in an embroidered mantle, stands on the main altar, surrounded by flowers and plaques of thanks.
The devotion is tied to the sea. Pearl and fishers attribute favors received during shipwrecks and storms to the Virgem, and many offerings left in the sanctuary are pearls, jewelry and small boats. In the square in front there are stalls selling candles, images and souvenirs.
The main feast is on September 8, when thousands of pilgrims arrive from all over the island and the mainland for Mass and the procession through the village streets. In the days around the feast, the square hosts music, stalls and traditional food.
Before you go
Practical information
Cidade Turismo reviews its information regularly, but something may have changed. Check with the place before planning your trip.
How much time to set aside
From 30 minutes to 1 hour.
Best time
In the morning, combining it with La Asunción and the Castillo de Santa Rosa, which are on the way. On September 8 and the surrounding days, the festival fills the village. Times change with the Masses; confirm before you go.
How to get there
It is located in El Valle del Espíritu Santo, about 5 km north of Porlamar, a 10 to 15 minute drive or taxi ride. There are local buses that pass through the village on the way to La Asunción.
Tip
Enter quietly and in modest clothing. Notice the offerings and plaques of thanks from fishermen on the side walls. If you're on the island in September, the festival on the 8th shows the island's devotion to the Virgem.
Get your questions answered
Frequently asked questions about Basílica de Nuestra Señora del Valle
When is the festa da Virgem do Vale?
On September 8, with Mass and a procession through the streets of El Valle del Espíritu Santo. The surrounding days are also festive.
Why is the Virgem do Vale linked to the fishermen?
Because she is the patron saint of fishermen and sailors of eastern Venezuela, who attribute favors received at sea to her. Many offerings at the sanctuary come from them.
Is the basilica far from Porlamar?
No, about 5 km to the north, a 10–15 minute drive by car or taxi.