Virgin of Guadalupe painting found intact in Cali earthquake debris

Amidst the devastation of a 7.4 magnitude earthquake that struck Colombia, a small symbol of hope emerged in Cali: a painting of the Virgin of Guadalupe found intact among the rubble.

Volunteers discovered the framed image in the Ciudad Capri neighborhood, one of the areas hardest hit by the tremor. According to social media accounts, the painting remained undamaged despite the building's collapse. The user who shared the find stated it would be handed over to the local parish priest.

The earthquake, with its epicenter in San José del Palmar, Chocó, caused widespread destruction. Cali, in particular, suffered extensive damage, with reports of 96 fatalities, 1,401 injuries, and 45 buildings completely collapsing. Rescue and cleanup efforts are ongoing as authorities work to account for the missing and assist survivors.

This discovery offers a moment of solace amidst the ongoing recovery efforts, with the image becoming a talking point among those involved in the rescue operations and sharing their experiences online.

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This painting of the Virgin of Guadalupe was inside the building on an intact wall and will be handed over to the parish priest of the Capri neighborhood church. There are witness neighbors, and I took it down to deliver it. Thank you.