The Virgin of the Forsaken, located at the altar of Ceremony Room number 1 in the Municipal Crematorium of Valencia, has been crowned with a new piece of goldsmithing, donated altruistically by an anonymous individual. Previously, the statue did not feature this adornment, and the Local Government Board has approved the acceptance of this unconditional and free donation, intended specifically for the crowning and embellishment of the Virgin of the Forsaken.
Carlos Mundina, the councillor responsible for Cemeteries and Funeral Services, expressed his gratitude for the gesture, highlighting that “this donation represents a show of affection and devotion towards the Virgin of the Forsaken and towards a municipal space that holds special significance for many Valencian families.”
The donation was communicated to the Cemeteries and Funeral Services Department on 24 September. Before proceeding with the administrative processing, the City Council sought the opinion of the Metropolitan Chapter of Valencia regarding the appropriateness of dedicating the piece to the statue. Vicente Fontestad, the Dean-President of the Chapter, confirmed his agreement to continue with the procedure after consulting with the chaplain and the manager of the Municipal Crematorium.
With the formal acceptance of the donation, the crown becomes part of the municipal heritage. The City Council of Valencia will take responsibility for its custody, conservation, and protection, ensuring it remains linked to the Virgin of the Forsaken and the municipal space for which it has been donated. Councillor Mundina reiterated his “appreciation to the donor for a selfless gesture that helps beautify this space and highlights the affection and connection that Valencians feel for the Mare de Déu.”
