Simon Bolivar ship arrives in Nueva Esparta to pay homage to the Virgin of the Valley

Published at: 31/08/2025 11:16 PM

The “Simón Bolívar” School Ship arrived in Nueva Esparta state as part of the commemorative activities in honor of the Virgin of the Valley, patron of the National Navy and of the Venezuelan East, the vessel recognized as the “Ambassador Without Borders”, was received at the Morro Valdez pier by civil and military authorities, together with the local community that gathered in a festive atmosphere.

According to Venezolana de Televisión (VTV), during the welcome ceremony, cultural and musical performances were held that accompanied the arrival of the sailboat. Brigadier Mayor Ronaldo Quintero Blanco said: “I appreciate the patriotic feeling of the people, the welcome they gave us. It was very impeccable, really, everything was very beautiful”.

The day highlighted the link between the Bolivarian National Armed Forces (FANB) and the island people, based on a tradition that combines religious devotion and patriotic values. The Rear Admiral, Ronald Briceño Huerta, commander of the ship, said: “On such an important date, [this] goes beyond the religious symbol, it is a vocation, it is an unbreakable faith of all the people.”

The governor of Nueva Esparta, Marisel Velásquez, said at the event: “The Neo-Spartan people are celebrating. We have received with a lot of love, with great joy this beautiful ship, which transcends borders, which carries the message of brotherhood, of La Paz that characterizes the Venezuelan people.”

The “Simon Bolivar” Training Ship will be available for public visits until September 10, where it will offer an opportunity to learn about its history, training functions and role in naval diplomacy. The feast of Our Lady of the Valley, patron saint of Nueva Esparta and Eastern Venezuela, is celebrated on September 8; on that date, thousands of faithful come to the sanctuary of the Valley of the Holy Spirit to participate in religious events, processions and floral offerings that reaffirm popular devotion.

Mazo News Team