Our Lady of Relief

Category: Nature > Park

District: Braga > Vila Verde > Soutelo > Gândara

Location

The Sanctuary of Our Lady of Alívio rises in the parish of Soutelo, in the municipality of Vila Verde, in the heart of Gândara. It is located in a semi-urban area, isolated in the valley of the Homem River, near the main road. The complex is surrounded by an environment of houses and yards that give it a local atmosphere. It stands out for its elevated position, set on a platform accessed by an imposing staircase, which gives it visibility in the surrounding landscape. It has a large frontal churchyard, which serves as a welcome area for visitors.

Origin and History

The history of the Sanctuary of Our Lady of Alívio dates back to 1790, linked to the faith of Father Francisco Xavier Leite Fragoas, then parish priest of Soutelo. Gravely ill and without hope of recovery, the priest made a promise to the Virgin Mary: if he recovered his health, he would build a temple in Her honor. According to reports, after a vision of Our Lady, his health improved remarkably. In fulfillment of his vow, in 1794 he obtained authorization to begin the construction of a chapel dedicated to Our Lady of Alívio, which was blessed and consecrated in 1798. This miraculous origin solidified devotion and quickly attracted numerous faithful.

Architecture and Devotion

The Sanctuary of Our Lady of Alívio features predominantly Neo-Gothic architecture, resulting from a significant expansion initiated in 1872, due to the growing influx of pilgrims. The complex consists of the main church, an older primitive chapel, and other support buildings. The main church, with a Latin cross plan, is marked by the verticality of its bell towers and the lantern tower that crowns the transept. The white facades, adorned with granite elements, include a main portal with arcades and rose windows. Inside, the nave features a barrel-vaulted ceiling painted blue and stained glass windows depicting moments from the Virgin's life. Outdoors, the welcoming gardens have tables and benches, and a fountain with the image of the Virgin, inviting rest and contemplation. A stone cross marks the beginning of the extensive churchyard area.

A Pilgrimage Center

Since its foundation, Our Lady of Alívio has established itself as one of the most important Marian pilgrimage centers in the Minho region. Devotion to Our Lady of Alívio, to whom graces and cures are attributed, continuously attracts visitors. The pilgrimages, especially those held on the second and third Sundays of September, are moments of great faith and celebration, gathering a vast community of believers and curious onlookers, who seek in this place of spirituality a refuge and a meeting point for faith and rest. It is recognized as the patron saint of Soutelo, demonstrating its deep roots in the local identity.

License: https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0/deed.pt