The Municipality of Lima and the Franciscan Province of the Twelve Apostles have entered into a formal agreement to undertake the comprehensive restoration of the historic Chapel of the Miracle. Located adjacent to the renowned Church and Convent of San Francisco in the Historic Center of Lima, the 17th-century sanctuary holds deep cultural and spiritual significance for the city. On September 17, representatives from both entities signed an official authorization document inside the chapel, committing city resources and technical expertise toward preserving the site.
Beyond its architectural value, the chapel functions as a major sanctuary dedicated to the Virgin of the Miracle. The revered 16th-century image housed within was brought to Peru from Spain by Franciscan friars in 1532, making it one of the founding religious images of the nation. Initially kept in Cusco, the statue was later enthroned in Lima’s church of San Francisco before its dedicated chapel was constructed in the 17th century, drawing continuous devotional pilgrimages ever since.
Devotion to the Virgin of the Miracle is closely tied to the historic earthquake that struck Lima on November 27, 1630. According to historical accounts, during the tremors, the image fell to the floor and turned toward the main altar, an event local faithful interpreted as a divine plea for the seismic activity to cease. Commemorated annually on November 27, the image was officially granted a Pontifical Coronation by Pope Pius XII on July 19, 1953.