Ermita de Nuestra Señora de Butarque

Whispers of a miracle echo around the Ermita de Nuestra Señora de Butarque. This unassuming hermitage, nestled beside Leganés’ cemetery, holds a story as captivating as any grand cathedral. The Ermita de Nuestra Señora de Butarque isn’t just a building. It’s a testament to faith, legend, and the enduring spirit of Leganés. The Ermita de Nuestra Señora de Butarque houses the venerated image of the Virgen de Butarque, patron saint of Leganés. Legend says a humble miller stumbled upon the Virgin’s image entangled in brambles near the remnants of the old Butarque village. The Virgin instructed him to build a temple and an altar. The people of Leganés heeded her call, giving rise to the Ermita de Nuestra Señora de Butarque. The current structure lacks a bell tower, giving it an austere appearance. Inside, you’ll find the pantheon of the Dukes of Tamames, added in 1900. The main altar, a striking bronze piece, was crafted by Luis Arencibia. A fascinating piece of history connects the Ermita de Nuestra Señora de Butarque to a famous historical figure. Juan de Austria, son of Charles I of Spain, spent much of his childhood in Leganés. He held deep devotion for the Virgen de Butarque. It’s said he carried her image with him during the Battle of Lepanto in 1571. After his victory, the Virgin was granted the title of Captain General of the Armies. This was the first time such an honor was bestowed upon a Virgin. Later, the Virgen del Pilar of Zaragoza and the Virgen de Guadalupe of Extremadura received the same distinction. Sadly, a fire ravaged the Ermita de Nuestra Señora de Butarque in 1969, leaving only its walls standing. The original medieval image of the Virgin was lost. A new image was commissioned, and the hermitage was painstakingly rebuilt. But the spirit of the Virgin, like the faith of the people of Leganés, remained unbroken. The Ermita de Nuestra Señora de Butarque stands today as a symbol of resilience and devotion. It serves as a quiet reminder of the power of belief and the enduring connection between a community and its patron saint.