Spiritual Protector and Guide of Mendoza
In the province of Mendoza, Argentina, there is a presence that rises above the vineyards and Andean landscapes: the Virgin of Carrodilla. Venerated since the 16th century, she is considered the region’s patroness and spiritual guide. Her sanctuary is a place of pilgrimage that gathers thousands of faithful each year and has left an indelible mark on Mendoza’s cultural identity.
The story goes back to 1630, when agricultural workers found an image of the Virgin Mary in a vineyard near the village of Carrodilla. After several failed attempts to move it to the local church —as it always reappeared in the vineyard— locals interpreted the event as a miracle. A sanctuary was built there, and since then the Virgin of Carrodilla has been venerated as the protector of the vineyards and a symbol of faith in Mendoza.
Over the centuries, devotion to the Virgin spread beyond Mendoza. Every December 8, during the Feast of the Virgin of Carrodilla, thousands of devotees flock to the sanctuary for masses, processions, and celebrations that reflect popular faith and gratitude.
Winegrowers in Mendoza turn to the Virgin of Carrodilla to ask for her blessing on their harvests and protection from weather and pests. Her intercession is seen as key to the success of Mendoza’s wine industry, now recognized worldwide.
Beyond religion, the Virgin of Carrodilla is a cultural symbol. Her image can be found in churches, chapels, and homes throughout Mendoza, and she appears in local art, music, and literature as an emblem of hope and faith.
The Virgin of Carrodilla is not just a religious icon: she is inspiration and comfort for generations of Mendocinos. Her presence reminds us of the importance of faith and devotion in daily life. If you visit Mendoza, make sure to stop by her sanctuary: say a prayer and give thanks for her blessings.