Feast Day: November 21
Our Lady of Bonaria, is a revered Catholic Marian devotion that originated in Cagliari, Italy. The devotion is centered around a miraculous statue of the Blessed Virgin Mary and the Christ Child that was discovered on April 25, 1370. Legend has it that the statue was found washed up at the Mercedarian monastery near Cagliari, possibly from a shipwreck that occurred the night before. According to local accounts, the crate containing the statue was discovered by the villagers who attempted to open it. However, it was only the perseverance of one Mercedarian monk that allowed them to finally unlock it and reveal the stunning statue of Mary holding the infant Jesus. The discovery of this statue became the foundation for the devotion to Our Lady of Bonaria. The statue itself is venerated as a symbol of protection and hope. Mary is depicted standing with the Christ Child in her arms, emanating a sense of maternal love and compassion. Throughout the centuries, countless miracles and graces have been attributed to the intercession of Our Lady of Bonaria, drawing devout pilgrims from far and wide. Due to the devotion's popularity and the numerous favors obtained through the intercession of Our Lady of Bonaria, Pope Pedro IV granted the Mercedarian monks permission to build a church in honor of the Blessed Virgin Mary. The church, named "Basilica of Our Lady of Bonaria," was completed in the 14th century and became a significant pilgrimage site for both locals and visitors. Our Lady of Bonaria is particularly venerated in Sardinia, Italy. She is considered the patroness of this beautiful Mediterranean island, where her statue has become a symbol of faith and devotion. The annual feast day in honor of Our Lady of Bonaria is celebrated on April 24th. Pilgrims from all over Sardinia, as well as other parts of Italy, gather to pay homage to the Blessed Virgin Mary and seek her intercession. The devotion to Our Lady of Bonaria has continued to grow and flourish over the centuries. The statue remains an object of intense devotion and is displayed prominently in the Basilica of Our Lady of Bonaria. Pilgrims from far and wide come to seek solace, healing, and heavenly protection in the presence of this miraculous image. Our Lady of Bonaria embodies the virtues of motherly love, compassion, and protection. Her intercession is believed to bring comfort, hope, and guidance to those who turn to her with fervent prayers. The devotion to Our Lady of Bonaria serves as a reminder of the powerful role of the Virgin Mary in the Catholic faith and stands as a testament to the unwavering devotion of her faithful followers.