Devotion to the Virgen del Mar has transformed the Patio de Luces of Diputación into a space for memory and the exaltation of Almerian society's love for its Patron Saint. The exhibition, open until October 30th, commemorates the 525th anniversary of her appearance on Torregarcía Beach and the 75th anniversary of her canonical coronation.
This is an unprecedented exhibition featuring around 50 pieces, including sculptures, paintings, textiles, goldsmithing, and jewelry, from various collections. The initiative is a collaboration between the Hermandad Virgen del Mar, the Diputación, the Ayuntamiento de Almería, and the Fundación Cajasol, and is curated by Alfredo Ureña.
The president of the Provincial Council of Almería, José Antonio García Alcaina, highlighted the significance of celebrating this religious, artistic, and social event at the home of the 103 municipalities, symbolizing the unity the Patron Saint represents for the entire province.
García Alcaina invited Almerians to enjoy the exhibition, divided into five didactic sections, and emphasized the presence of works by Almerian artists such as Jesús de Perceval, Luis Cañadas, Pituco, and Carmen Pinteño, whose art combines artistic and spiritual value.
The Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries, Water, and Rural Development of the Regional Government of Andalusia, Ramón Fernández-Pacheco, a brother of the Virgen del Mar, underscored the connection between the Patron Saint, the history, and traditions of Almería, reaffirming the regional government's commitment to heritage conservation.
The Councilor for Culture of the Almería City Council, Joaquín Pérez de la Blanca, congratulated the organizing entities for bringing this legacy to light, highlighting the emotional value the Patron Saint holds for the people of Almería.
The president of the Fundación Cajasol, Antonio Pulido, expressed the honor of accompanying the people of Almería in this celebration, noting how the exhibition spans over five centuries of history, culture, and tradition.
The Vicar General of the Diocese of Almería, Ignacio López, stated that the Virgen del Mar embodies the living faith of a people, and the exhibition's curator, Alfredo Ureña, emphasized the maternal-filial bond of love forged over time.
The senior brother of the Hermandad Virgen del Mar, Jorge Juan Fernández, thanked all collaborators and encouraged Almerians to enjoy the essential pieces of their heritage.
The exhibition is structured into sections such as ‘Mater Apparita’ (Appearance), ‘Mater Efficta’ (Iconographic Evolution), ‘Mater Tradita’ (Oral Tradition), ‘Mater Venerata’ (Popular Piety), and ‘Mater Coronata’ (Coronation Jewels).
A series of conferences and free guided tours have been scheduled. The talks will cover topics like jewelry, music, and textile heritage, taking place on September 25th, October 1st and 8th, October 15th, October 22nd, and October 29th.
The exhibition is located at the Patio de Luces of Diputación (Navarro Rodrigo street nº 17, Almería) and can be visited from Monday to Sunday, including holidays, from 10:00 AM to 2:00 PM and from 5:00 PM to 9:00 PM.
