Our Lady of The Valley
Nostra Signora di Valverde
The Legend of Our Lady of The Valley
In the green valley near Catania, Sicily, on the slopes of Mount Etna, the Blessed Virgin Mary revealed her boundless mercy.
Around the year 1040, a man named Dionisio, known for a life of violence and sin, wandered these hills. There, the Virgin appeared to him, radiant and gentle, holding her Divine Son. She spoke not with condemnation, but with love, calling him to repentance and asking that a chapel be built in her honor on that holy ground.
Touched by grace, Dionisio laid down his weapons, confessed his sins, and devoted his life to God. His conversion became the first miracle of Our Lady of Valverde, reminding all who hear her story that no heart is beyond redemption.
From that place flowed a spring of water, a sign of purification and healing. Pilgrims soon came seeking mercy, peace, and protection, especially in times of earthquake and trial.
Today, Our Lady of Valverde remains a tender Mother to her people — a refuge for sinners, a comfort to the afflicted, and a Queen who leads souls to her Son. In her green valley, hearts are still renewed, and faith is reborn. This legend teaches us that at its heart, no sinner is beyond mercy, Mary will always seek out those who are lost, and conversion to the faith is the greatest miracle of all.
Our Lady of Valverde, pray for us.