Some devotions do not originate in a single place. Instead, they travel along paths, crossing territories and ultimately finding new meaning in every place they reach. This is the case with the Virgin of Remedies, a Marian devotion whose origins are not in Cusco, but which has become an integral part of its tradition over time.
Today, she is present at important celebrations, processions and expressions of faith in the city. However, the journey of this devotion is much broader, marked by travels and adaptations, and characterised by a close relationship with her devotees.
📜 Who is the Virgin of Remedies?
Within the Catholic tradition, Virgin of Remedies is a title of the Virgin Mary associated with the ability to intercede in times of difficulty by offering a 'remedy' for various problems or needs.
The devotion originated in Spain and spread throughout Europe, where it was associated with spiritual protection. Over time, this devotion spread to the Americas during the colonial era, adapting to different contexts and cultures.
📖 The History of the Virgin of Remedies in Cusco
The history of the Virgin of Remedies does not begin in Cusco or even on the American continent. Its origins lie in Spain. As the Spanish expanded into the Americas, many of these devotions crossed the ocean.
Among them was the Virgin of Remedies, a replica of the Virgin of Los Desamparados in Seville, which first arrived in Mexico, where it remained for thirteen years before coming to Peru.
Before reaching Cusco, the image of the Virgin of Remedies undertook a significant journey across Peruvian territory. She remained in Lima for around 12 years, before travelling to Huancavelica with Alonso de Monroy.
One night, Monroy was attacked by a group of drunken men and stabbed in the neck. While he was being treated, he pleaded with the Virgin for his life, claiming that she had asked him to take her to the Cathedral of Cusco. Monroy agreed on the condition that she would save him.
Months later, the only reminder of the incident was a scar, and Monroy kept his promise. Upon arriving in Cusco in 1646, she was welcomed at the cathedral.
🎆 The Festival of the Virgin of Remedies in Cusco
The Feast of Our Lady of Los Remedios is traditionally celebrated on 8 September, which coincides with the Nativity of the Virgin Mary in the Catholic calendar.
The festivities take place at the Monastery of Santa Catalina and begin at 2 p.m.
Virgin of Remedies on Corpus Christi
Unlike the other, older images featured in the Corpus Christi procession, the Virgin of Remedies was not originally part of this celebration.
She was only officially incorporated into the procession in 1980, following authorisation from the Church and the increasing popularity of local devotion.
