Chapel of Apparitions

Category: Religious Architecture > Church

District: Santarém > Ourém > Fátima > Santuário de Fátima

Location

The Chapel of the Apparitions is located in Cova da Iria, in the town of Fátima, in the municipality of Ourém. Situated at the center of the vast Prayer Esplanade of the Sanctuary of Fátima, it is a central and easily accessible point for visitors, positioning itself as the epicenter of the site's devotional life.

Origin and Historical Significance

This small and emblematic temple is the "heart" of the Sanctuary, erected on the exact spot where Our Lady appeared to the three shepherd children in 1917. Five of the six apparitions of the Virgin Mary (in May, June, July, September, and October) occurred precisely here, fulfilling the Lady's request for a chapel to be built in her honor. Its construction took place between April and June 1919, being blessed and hosting its first Mass in October 1921. Despite being the target of an attack in 1922, the Chapel was quickly restored, preserving its original features as a popular hermitage.

The Image of Our Lady and Its Symbols

Inside the Chapel, on a pedestal, the image of Our Lady of the Rosary of Fátima is venerated. This pedestal marks the site of the small holm oak tree where the apparitions occurred. The sculpture, made of Brazilian cedar wood, was commissioned in 1920 and has since been a focal point of devotion. On special occasions, the image is adorned with a valuable crown of gold and precious stones, which symbolically incorporates the bullet that struck Pope John Paul II in 1981, his offering in gratitude for his life being saved.

Architecture and Ambiance

Over the years, the Chapel has undergone some adaptations to better accommodate pilgrims, always maintaining its essence. The current porch, a distinctive element, was added in 1982. The ceiling, lined with Siberian pine wood, was chosen for its durability and lightness, contributing to an atmosphere of contemplation. Inside, an organ, with its twelve stops and two manuals, accompanies the liturgical celebrations, creating a sonic environment that enhances the sacredness of this space of profound faith.

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