Article Summary
- On September 13th, Torrevieja presents the ’Banco de la Esperanza’ to honor the Canonical Coronation of Virgin de la Esperanza.
- The commemorative bench symbolizes 40 years of local devotion and serves as a new landmark in Plaza de Oriente.
- the bench features a central ”time capsule” with past artifacts related to the coronation event.
- The unveiling is part of an extraordinary religious procession starting from Parroquia del Sagrado Corazón de Jesús.
- Designed by Emilia Aliaga and Pepe Miralles, the bench was installed by the City Council’s Parks and Gardens Department.
The ‘Banco de la Esperanza’: A Timeless Tribute in Torrevieja
Tomorrow, Saturday, September 13, Torrevieja will witness a heartfelt tribute to its long-standing religious tradition with the unveiling of the ‘Banco de la Esperanza’ (Bench of Hope). This special event marks the festivity following the Canonical Coronation of Our Lady of Hope and Peace (Nuestra Señora de la Esperanza y de la Paz), led by the Bishop of the Orihuela-Alicante Diocese.
The bench is not just a resting place-it is a symbol of faith, history, and community spirit, honoring four decades of devotion to the virgen de la Esperanza. Installed in the iconic Plaza de Oriente, the bench will serve as a new point of identity and pride for both residents and visitors alike.
Event Highlights and Presentation Ceremony
- The bench unveiling coincides with an extraordinary religious procession starting from Parroquia del Sagrado Corazón de Jesús.
- As the procession approaches Plaza de Oriente, the bench-already installed-will be officially revealed.
- Torrevieja’s Mayor, Eduardo Dolón, and Ana Isabel ferrándiz, President of the Cofradía de la Virgen de la Esperanza, will lead the unveiling ceremony.
A Design Rich in Symbolism and Memory
The bench is the artistic creation of Emilia Aliaga and Pepe Miralles, who described the piece as “an alliance” reflecting unity and hope. Concha Sala, City Councilor for Parks and Gardens, coordinated the project and emphasized the bench’s role as a lasting memorial of this religious milestone and a new landmark in the city’s public spaces.
Inside the Bench: A Time Capsule for the Future
Uniquely, the Banco de la Esperanza includes a sealed time capsule embedded within its structure, filled with carefully selected mementos related to the coronation and the city’s religious heritage:
- Legal currency coins from 2024
- The original design sketch of the bench
- The latest edition of the Torrevieja Semana Santa magazine
- The official coronation decree signed by the Bishop
- Posters and religious cards commemorating the coronation
- an edition of the local weekly newspaper, Semanario Vista Alegre
Why the Banco de la Esperanza matters
Over the last 40 years, the Virgen de la Esperanza has been a cornerstone of faith for Torrevieja’s community, fostering unity and spiritual identity. This bench not only honors that lasting devotion but also acts as an invitation for reflection and connection for future generations.
Visiting the Banco de la Esperanza
The bench is located prominently in Plaza de Oriente, a central open space in torrevieja known for its vibrant atmosphere and cultural significance. Visitors are encouraged to witness this symbolic landmark that intertwines art, faith, and community history.
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Location | Plaza de Oriente, torrevieja |
| Unveiling Date | September 13, 2024 |
| Event | Canonical Coronation & Religious Procession |
| Designers | Emilia Aliaga & Pepe Miralles |
| City Involvement | Torrevieja city council Parks & Gardens Department |
| Special Feature | embedded Time Capsule |
This thoughtful commemoration reflects the heart of Torrevieja’s cultural and spiritual life, reminding citizens and visitors that hope, faith, and memory remain at the core of this coastal city’s identity.