Hello friends,
Today I decided to address a very important issue for Latin American culture: religion
As is already known, the South American population tends to be very fervent with religion. There are innumerable churches, Catholicism is strong. Peru is no exception to this tacit rule. I can tell you that in my country religious fervor is particularly strong in rural areas or far from the capital. I had heard years ago about a woman named Melchorita, who in the city of Chincha and according to her settlers had worked miracles. I prefer to book my personal opinions but I was interested to find out about it. For that reason a few days ago I decided during a trip to stop at that place, which is known as the Sanctuary of Melchorita Saravia.
Her real name was Melchora Saravia Tasayco (Chincha, Peru, January 6, 1895 - December 4, 1951) and was a Franciscan tertiary religious who dedicated her entire life to the care of the poor and sick of the town. The admirable life of this holy woman earned her the respect of the inhabitants of the area, who went to her humble home in search of advice, physical help, and spiritual strength. That is, the fame and reputation of La Mechorita developed with her in life. Finally died in 1951 victim of cancer. His remains are in his hometown of Chincha.
The place is certainly humble and simple. When we arrived there were many people, some praying, others lighting candles and leaving their photos and those of their relatives next to photos of the Melchorita. They hope that some miracle will appear in their lives thanks to the offerings they have left and the belief that the Melchorita will help them.This a very short video I made while visiting the sanctuary:
The entrance to the sanctuary is free. You can take photos and film without restrictions. They even gave you little stamps of the Melchorita. Outside the sanctuary, you will find several souvenirs of the Melchorita such as pictures, bracelets, earrings, necklaces, amulets, among other things. This is my review on Google Maps: Review of Santuario de la Melchorita Saravia
Well, I think this is it. It was an interesting place, and an opportunity to comprehend why so many many people believe in her. Truly amazing.
All the best,
Marco … from PERU!
p.s. I attach a few more pictures of this place!