Our Lady of Hope (Macarena)

## The Devotion Our Lady of Hope Macarena (María Santísima de la Esperanza Macarena) is one of Spain's most beloved Marian images, enshrined in the Basilica de Santa María de la Esperanza Macarena in Seville. The 17th-century wooden sculpture depicts the Virgin Mary in sorrowful contemplation, her face glistening with crystal tears. The devotion falls under the broader title of Our Lady of Sorrows, commemorating Mary's grief during Holy Week. The image is particularly associated with Seville's Semana Santa celebrations, when she processes through the streets in the early hours of Good Friday during the famous Madrugá. ## Feast Day 18 December (local feast of La Esperanza Macarena) ## Patronage Patroness of bullfighters and the Romani people of Spain. The matador José Ortega donated five emerald brooches to the image in 1912, which she still wears.