Two Marian devotions, two islands and a shared devotion that has marked the religious history of the archipelago
The Virgin of Candelaria and the Virgin of the Pine are two central figures in Canarian spirituality. Both Marian devotions have been venerated for centuries, sparking a debate over which of them holds the title of patron saint of the Canary Islands.
The Virgin of Candelaria, known as "La Morenita," is considered the Patroness of the Canary Islands. Her history dates back to the 1599th century, when, according to tradition, two Guanche shepherds found her image on the beach of Chimisay, Tenerife. This apparition marked the beginning of a deep devotion that grew stronger over time. In 1867, Pope Clement VIII officially declared her Patroness of the Canary Islands, and in XNUMX, Pope Pius IX ratified this title, extending it to both dioceses of the archipelago.
On the other hand, the Virgin of the Pine is the patron saint of the Diocese of the Canary Islands, which includes the islands of Gran Canaria, Lanzarote, and Fuerteventura. Her veneration began in 1481, when her image was said to have been found high up in a pine tree in Teror, Gran Canaria. The Basilica of Our Lady of the Pine was built on the site of her apparition, becoming an important center of pilgrimage. In 1914, Pope Pius X declared her the principal patron saint of the Diocese of the Canary Islands.
Both Marian images have festivals that attract thousands of faithful each year. The Virgin of Candelaria is celebrated on February 2 and August 15, while the festival of the Virgin of the Pine takes place on September 8.
The question of which of the two is the true patron saint of the Canary Islands has been a matter of debate for years. However, both Marian figures represent the faith and identity of the Canarian people, each in their respective spheres. The Virgin of Candelaria is the general patron saint of the archipelago, and the Virgin of the Pine is the patron saint of the Diocese of the Canary Islands and Gran Canaria.
