Sanctuary of the Holy Virgin of Valvanuz

The Sanctuary of the Holy Virgin of Valvanuz stands as the most important religious site in Selaya, a small town in Cantabria's Carriedo Valley. The church sits on the outskirts of town, along the road toward Bustantegua, and for centuries has drawn worshippers from the Pasiego valleys as well as pilgrims from across Cantabria.

How old is this sanctuary?

The site's origins likely date back to the 12th century, when an earlier structure stood here. Construction of the current temple began in the 16th century, and it was remodeled and embellished further during the 17th and 18th centuries. A fire in 1800 destroyed much of the interior furnishings, but the church was subsequently restored while keeping its original character.

What does the building look like?

The sanctuary follows a simple single-nave plan measuring 33 by 9 meters, covered by a three-way roof. One of its most distinctive features is a lateral portico that runs almost the full length of the church itself — a covered walkway where pilgrims traditionally rest during festival gatherings.

Who is the Virgin of Valvanuz?

The image of the Virgin of Valvanuz is a Gothic sculpture carved from a single piece of very hard wood, measuring just 56 by 20 centimeters. Mary holds the Christ Child on her left knee while lifting what appears to be a fruit symbolizing salvation; the Child holds a book in one hand and raises the other in a gesture of blessing.

The Virgin of Valvanuz is the patroness of the Carriedo Valley, a title officially bestowed in 1947, and the image was crowned by the Bishop of Santander in 1990. Devotion to her runs especially deep among the Pasiegos, the people of these mountain valleys in northern Cantabria.

When does the main celebration take place?

The patronal feast falls on August 15. The celebrations honoring the Virgin of Valvanuz have been declared a Festival of Regional Tourist Interest, reflecting the scale and importance of the event on Cantabria's calendar. On this day, crowds of the faithful and visitors converge on Selaya, and the area around the sanctuary comes alive with the atmosphere typical of northern Spain's rural religious festivals.

Why is it worth a visit?

The sanctuary combines historical, architectural, and spiritual value. For centuries it has been the gathering point for generations of Carriedo Valley residents, and its quiet, rural surroundings make it a pleasant stop while exploring the wider Valles Pasiegos region.

Frequently Asked Questions

Where exactly is the sanctuary located? It stands on the outskirts of Selaya, along the road toward Bustantegua, in the Carriedo Valley in Cantabria.

How old is the church? The site's roots likely go back to the 12th century, but the current building dates from the 16th century, with further remodeling in the 17th and 18th centuries.

When is the feast of the Virgin of Valvanuz celebrated? The main celebration takes place on August 15 and holds the status of a Festival of Regional Tourist Interest.

What makes the image of the Virgin distinctive? It is a Gothic wooden sculpture carved from a single piece of wood, 56 by 20 centimeters, depicting Mary with the Christ Child holding a book and raising a hand in blessing.