Religious image begins 16 day journey through Zulia water communities

A replica of the Virgen de Chiquinquirá departed from the Malecón de Maracaibo on November 1 to visit lake communities in the Zulia state of Venezuela.

The journey follows the traditional Bajada de La Chinita celebration and honors the 317th anniversary of the miraculous renewal and the 84th anniversary of the canonical coronation of the Virgin of Chiquinquirá. The replica traveled by boat accompanied by members of the Armada Bolivariana and the Guardia Nacional Bolivariana.

The religious procession aims to bring spiritual comfort and unity to coastal populations that might not be able to visit the Basílica de la Chinita. The route includes approximately 15 communities along the Zulia coast. The image will visit locations such as San Rafael de El Moján, Sinamaica, and the island of Toas. It will also stop in various towns including Los Jobitos, Los Puertos de Altagracia, Santa Rita, Cabimas, Lagunillas, and Bachaquero.

The pilgrimage marks the 25th year of this specific tradition of bringing the sacred replica to local families. Governor Luis Ladera noted that the visit provides hope and peace to the country during a time of many trials.