Sanctuary of Our Lady of Lapa

Category: Religious Architecture > Church

District: Viseu > Sernancelhe > Quintela > Lapa

Location

The Sanctuary of Our Lady of Lapa rises in the locality of Quintela, part of the municipality of Sernancelhe. It is situated in a higher area of the mountain range, on a rocky plateau that lends its name, "Lapa" (rock shelter/cave), to the original hermitage itself. The surrounding area is marked by a natural and serene landscape, characterized by granitic outcrops.

Near the sanctuary, one can observe some ancient wayside crosses, known as "Miradouros" (viewpoints), which are distributed according to the cardinal points, offering distinct views of the landscape. Additionally, the Clerics' Fountain, dating from the 18th century, complements the historical and natural ambiance of this area.

Origin and Legend

The history of the Sanctuary of Our Lady of Lapa has its roots in a legend that spans centuries. It is believed that in the 10th century, a group of fleeing nuns hid a small image of the Virgin Mary beneath a rock that served as a natural shelter, a "lapa." Later, in 1493, a young mute shepherdess named Joana is said to have found this image in the grotto.

The rediscovery of the image is associated with a miracle: Joana regained her voice when her disbelieving mother tried to throw the figure into the fire. This event marked the beginning of a fervent devotion. The rock where the image was discovered, with its narrow crevice, also became a place of popular belief, where it was said that only pure souls could pass through.

Architecture and Historical Significance

The primitive chapel of the Sanctuary was built in 1498. However, the current structure, an imposing building of Baroque and Philippine influence, was erected in the 17th century by the Jesuits. This religious order was crucial in consolidating the cult and promoting pilgrimages to this site. Its importance is recognized by its classification as a Property of Public Interest since 1951.

Inside the church, in the chancel, the original rock, the "miraculous lapa," remains, housing the venerated image of Our Lady of Lapa. The sanctuary is also enriched by a vast collection of offerings, including gifts from kings and queens, and by the rich scenography of the altars, such as those dedicated to the Crucifixion and the Death of Saint Joseph. Also noteworthy is the presence of a curious ex-voto, a representation of a large lizard hanging from the ceiling, the result of a promise by a devotee who was saved in India.

A Pilgrimage Center

The Sanctuary of Our Lady of Lapa has, over time, solidified itself as one of the most significant pilgrimage centers in Portugal, having been, in past eras, one of the most important in the Iberian Peninsula, alongside the Cathedral of Santiago de Compostela. Devotion to Our Lady of Lapa spread, even to Brazil and other former Portuguese colonies, where numerous churches dedicated to her can be found.

Annually, the main feast of Our Lady of Lapa is celebrated on August 15th, attracting thousands of pilgrims who travel there to fulfill promises or out of simple faith. Other important pilgrimage dates occur on June 10th and the first Sunday of September, preceded by novenas that intensify the atmosphere of contemplation and spirituality at the site.

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