“Forgotten” is the first word that comes to mind as I stand before the Igreja de Nossa Senhora da Alegria. This 17th-century church in Portugal seems largely forgotten by the village that surrounds it. However its simple style holds a unique story.
The Igreja de Nossa Senhora da Alegria’s rarity is part of its charm. The church is rarely open. This adds to its mystique. Imagine the secrets held within its walls.
Let’s explore what we can see. The church comprises two volumes. These are the nave and chancel. These exhibit a baroque style. There is also a sacristy. Brick stone and lime masonry form the entire structure. The exterior is plastered and whitewashed. Inside polychrome tiles from the 17th century adorn the nave and chancel.
Facing north the main door is quite large. Its frame is made of fine-grained granite stone. Above the door a niche holds an image. The image is of Nossa Senhora da Alegria in porcelain. Polychrome tiles cover this niche. It shares the main door’s width. This creates a harmonious appearance.
Nossa Senhora da Alegria translates to Our Lady of Joy. Marian devotions often include titles of joy. These include Our Lady of Sorrows and the French devotion of Liésse. Liésse translates to joy.
Legend tells of three noblemen from Laon. They were captured during the reign of Fulco of Anjou. He was the fourth king of Jerusalem. Sultan El-Afdhal tried to make them renounce their faith. They refused and converted the prince’s daughter.
She helped them escape and even joined them. They took an image of the Virgin Mary with them. One night exhausted and uncertain they fell asleep. Upon waking they were back in their homeland France. They had been miraculously transported from Egypt. They found the statue of Our Lady.
Overwhelmed with joy they built a sanctuary. This was in honor of Mary. The Virgin Mary then multiplied blessings and graces. The Basilica of Notre-Dame de Liesse stands in the diocese of Laon. This name means Our Lady of Joy. It commemorates the happy event.
Interestingly the image of Nossa Senhora da Alegria is one of many Black Virgin images. These images are revered around the world.
Let us appreciate the Igreja de Nossa Senhora da Alegria. It may seem forgotten. Yet it holds stories of faith joy and miraculous journeys. Its simple exterior hides a rich history. It is a testament to enduring devotion.