HIGHLIGHTING THE MATERIALIZATION OF MIRACLES THROUGH EXVOTOS AT THE SÃO FRANCISCO CULTURAL CENTER.

Abstract

The main objective of this internship was the dissemination of knowledge about the symbolism inherent in ex-votos. I had the opportunity to participate in guided research on the significance of ex-votos for the faithful who attend the pilgrimage of Penha, held annually in the city of João Pessoa - PB. This pilgrimage is a manifestation where numerous religious individuals come together to praise “Nossa Senhora da Penha”. The creation and offering of exvotos are part of this ritual, and these pieces aim to represent, in a material form, the graces and miracles they have obtained. Therefore, at the end of this
internship period, within the field of the São Francisco Cultural Center, my classmates and I had the opportunity to participate in the creation of an exhibition open to the public, featuring selected ex-voto pieces from the Miracles Chapel, located in the sanctuary of “Nossa Senhora da Penha”. We shared with visitors the history of these pieces and their connections to the
materialization of a miracle, making this cultural practice known to the entire population to prevent its loss over time.