Category: Religious Architecture > Church
District: Leiria > Leiria > Milagres > Corredoura
The Sanctuary of the Lord Jesus of Miracles stands in the locality of Milagres, belonging to the municipality of Leiria. Situated in the Corredoura area, the temple rises on a small elevation, standing out in the local urban landscape. Its presence is striking in the center of the village, offering a wide perspective of the surroundings.
The history of this sanctuary dates back to the 18th century, its foundation being propelled by an extraordinary event that occurred in 1728. Tradition tells that a man, Manuel Francisco Maio, who moved with great difficulty, miraculously regained his ability to walk at this location. This event, attributed to the intervention of the Lord Jesus, gave rise to the name of the locality itself, Milagres (Miracles), and motivated deep popular devotion.
Over time, the influx of believers and their offerings allowed for the construction of the church we see today, which began in 1732. Since then, the site has become one of the most significant pilgrimage centers in Portugal, where faith and tradition remain alive throughout the centuries.
The Sanctuary of the Lord Jesus of Miracles is a notable example of Baroque architecture. Its construction spanned a long period, with the interior being completed around 1750. However, the exterior facade, which includes the two imposing bell towers and the covered galilee that welcomes visitors, was only finalized at the end of the 19th century, designed by the renowned architect Ernesto Korrodi.
Inside, the single nave and the chancel reveal a wealth of details, with large windows that bathe the space in natural light. Decorative elements in tile are observed, accompanied by dark and pink-toned marbles, which adorn the walls and contribute to the solemn atmosphere of the temple.
The Sanctuary of the Lord Jesus of Miracles continues to be a place of great spiritual and cultural importance. Annually, devotion to the Lord Jesus of Miracles is publicly celebrated on September 14th, or on the Monday immediately following, if that date does not fall on that weekday. This festivity is particularly known for its solemn procession of floats, a moment of strong religious expression that attracts hundreds of people from various parts of the country, keeping alive the memory of the events that founded its existence.
License: https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0/deed.pt
Coordinates DD: 39.7905299,-8.7952294
Coordinates DMS: 39°47'25.9"N 08°47'42.8"W