At the beginning of the 18th century, the Virgin Mary appeared to Pastor João. The primitive chapel was then built on the boulder where everything happened. Later, in the same century, the temple was resized.

The Sanctuary of Nossa Senhora da Aparecida was built on the site where a Marian Apparition took place in 1702. According to tradition, João, a «mute and simple» shepherd, witnessed the apparition and was cured of his mutism. His father promoted the construction of the small chapel on the cliff where the Virgin appeared, in gratitude for the miracle performed on his son. The place began to be very frequented by devout pilgrims who flocked there from all parts of Minho. The primitive chapel, faced with the influx of devotees, was expanded in the following years. Between 1707 and 1720, the well-proportioned temple was built, with two towers and a high nave, with alms from the faithful. Legend has it that only those who do not have sins can pass through the narrow opening of the cliff under the original chapel.

Picnic Park and Viewpoint

Source: https://www.cm-barcelos.pt/items/santuario-de-nossa-senhora-aparecida-balugaes/