Nossa Senhora Aparecida Sanctuary
In 1702, the Virgin Mary appeared to João Alves on the Caramona Mountain, a mute shepherd to whom she miraculously restored the gift of speech. Divided in two chapels, the original and smaller one, located on the sacred rock, is open to the devotion of “Senhor dos Passos”. The larger chapel, built at a later date, due to the number of pilgrims that came to this place after the apparition, contains the image of João Alves and of Nossa Senhora Aparecida (“Our Lady of Appearance”). Elevated and with many pleasant spots to be discovered, it provides a generous view of the Neiva Valley and attracts thousands of devotees, especially on August 15th, date of the annual pilgrimage.