The Virgin of Copacabana is a four foot tall statue of the Madonna created by Francisco Tito Yupanqui to help promote Christianity in the town in Bolivia (not to be mistaken for the thong-clad place in Rio de Janeiro). It was made from maguey wood and wears a wig and gold leaf clothing. It holds a straw basket and baton.
The Virgin of Copacabana, the patron saint of Bolivia, is responsible for many miracles. In 1949, the statue received a crown and the 16th century Spanish colonial shrine where its housed was named a basilica. The feast day is Aug. 5.
