Category: Religious Architecture > Church
District: Vila Real > Alijó > Pegarinhos
Situated in Castorigo, an area within the village of Pegarinhos, in the municipality of Alijó, the Chapel of Our Lady of the Afflicted stands on a site once known as a hill. This position suggests an atmosphere of tranquility and potentially offers views over the surrounding landscape. Its presence in Pegarinhos gives it a role as a landmark and a gathering point for the local community.
The Chapel of Our Lady of the Afflicted, whose construction dates back to 1838, possesses a history deeply rooted in popular tradition. Its genesis dates back to the discovery of an image of the Virgin by hunters at the very spot where the chapel now stands. This mystical event is believed to have spurred devotion, leading to the settlement of Franciscan friars in the area. It was these religious figures who actively promoted the cult of Our Lady of the Afflicted, consolidating its importance. On the exterior of the chapel, one can observe the Arms of St. Francis, an element that marks the Franciscans' historical connection to this sanctuary.
Over the years, the Chapel of Our Lady of the Afflicted has become a refuge of faith and hope for many. Popularly referred to as the Appeared Lady, this invocation of the Virgin Mary is sought by those who long for aid and protection in the face of their afflictions and challenges. For the inhabitants of Pegarinhos, including those who are further away, the chapel and the devotion to Our Lady of the Afflicted represent a powerful element of identity and unity. It is a space where the community feels connected to its roots, cultivating a deep spiritual and cultural bond that transcends the building's mere architectural value.
License: https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0/deed.pt
Coordinates DD: 41.3608828,-7.4464653
Coordinates DMS: 41°21'39.2"N 07°26'47.3"W