Chapel of Our Lady Mother of Men

Category: Religious Architecture > Church

District: Portalegre > Avis > Alcórrego e Maranhão > Fonte Ferreira

Location

Nestled within the Fonte Ferreira urbanization, this hermitage is located in the heart of Alcórrego e Maranhão, integrated into the municipality of Avis. Its position, marked by its proximity to the Maranhão Dam, grants it an atmosphere of natural serenity, somewhat removed from busier centers, offering a peaceful perspective on the Alentejo landscape.

A Past of Devotion

Over the centuries, the Hermitage of Our Lady Mother of Men established itself as one of the most important centers of faith and pilgrimage in the municipality of Avis. Its period of greatest splendor occurred at the beginning of the 20th century, when its annual festivities attracted crowds and filled the pages of local and regional newspapers. The Confraternity dedicated to Our Lady Mother of Men played a central role in organizing celebrations that transcended the religious, including moments of community gathering that reflected the profound devotion and vibrant spirit of the era.

The Surroundings and Memory

The construction of the Maranhão Dam in the 1950s significantly transformed the hermitage's surroundings. Although this development altered the access dynamics and the influx of visitors from before, it granted the site a new atmosphere. The hermitage is now integrated into a landscape where the presence of water stands out, contributing to a tranquil and distinct setting, which invites reflection on its rich history and the communities that shaped it.

Living Tradition

Despite changes in the local landscape, the Hermitage of Our Lady Mother of Men continues to be a point of encounter and tradition. Annually, the community gathers for events that keep its essence alive, such as the traditional procession, mass, and picnic gatherings in its surroundings. These moments allow for remembrance of the ancient festivities and the energy of the people who, over generations, animated the surrounding fields, underscoring the continuity of local memory and cultural heritage.

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