Our Lady of Lapas

Category: Religious Architecture > Church

District: Santarém > Tomar > Cadaval

Location

Nossa Senhora das Lapas is located in Tomar, in a picturesque area. This site is situated along the banks of the Nabão river, in an environment resembling a small natural canyon. The abundance of trees provides dense shade, offering a cool and inviting atmosphere, especially on hotter days.

The unique character of the landscape results from the river's action over time, which has shaped the rock and contributed to the creation of a distinct microclimate, characterized by its vegetation and a sense of tranquil isolation.

A Natural and Tranquil Setting

The surrounding environment is dominated by the striking presence of the river and dense vegetation. The Nabão river flows serenely, inviting moments of contemplation and relaxation. The profusion of trees, moss, and water seepage has shaped the local rock, giving it a peculiar texture and making the place cool and protected from direct sunlight.

This natural setting offers an experience of quietude, where the sound of the river and the fresh air beneath the foliage create a natural refuge for those seeking a moment of peace away from the hustle and bustle.

The Legend and the Devotion

The name of the place, Nossa Senhora das Lapas, refers to an ancient devotion and a legend rooted in local history. Tradition holds that, around the year 982, after a period of conflicts in the Iberian Peninsula, some nuns sought refuge in a "lapa" (a grotto) carrying with them an image of Our Lady. This image remained hidden in the location for centuries.

Later, in 1498, a young shepherdess named Joana, who was born mute, is said to have found the small image in the grotto. The girl's innocence led her to keep the image as if it were a doll. The legend tells that when her mother, angered, threw the image into the fire, Joana miraculously regained her speech and her mother suffered paralysis in her arm, which was cured after prayer. In recognition of this miracle, the community built the chapel that stands there today, to house the revered image, which, according to tradition, always mysteriously returned to the grotto whenever they tried to take it to the parish church.

The Devotion to Our Lady of Lapa

The devotion to Our Lady of Lapa is intrinsically linked to her iconographic representation. The image of the Virgin Mary is generally portrayed standing, on clouds, with hands joined in prayer, crowned, and with the symbol of the Holy Spirit, a dove, above her head. This symbolism reflects the purity, spirituality, and divine protection associated with the Virgin Mary.

The chapel, built in honor of this devotion, is a landmark for the community and for visitors who seek to learn its history and feel the atmosphere of faith that surrounds the place. The simplicity and natural environment complement the sacred character of this space.

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