A Mural that Withstood Earthquakes
The story of El Señor de los Milagros began in the year 1651, when an Angolan slave in Lima painted an image of the crucified Christ on the adobe wall of a humble dwelling in the Pachacamilla neighborhood. The painting was neither commissioned nor particularly grand. It was a simple act of faith in a time of suffering.
In 1655, a devastating earthquake shook Lima, destroying many buildings. Yet the wall with the image of Christ remained standing. This miraculous preservation sparked widespread devotion. Over the next decades, more quakes struck Lima, and each time the image withstood the destruction. Locals began calling it “El Señor de los Milagros:” The Lord of Miracles.
By the 18th century, the devotion became more formalized, with the first large public processions. Today, this image is considered one of the most important religious symbols in Peru, and the October processions are among the largest Catholic gatherings in the world.
What is El Señor de los Milagros?
The core celebration of El Señor de los Milagros unfolds throughout October, with the highlight being the grand procession of the sacred image carried on an enormous platform weighing several tons. If you stood on a Lima street corner during this time, you would witness a sea of purple, as thousands of faithful wear purple habits or robes. The color purple symbolizes penance and devotion.
Slowly and reverently, the image of the crucified Christ, adorned with gold and flowers, makes its way through the city. Families line the streets, setting up altars decorated with marigolds and scattering petals before the image’s path. Hymns of both sorrow and praise fill the air, blending into a single prayerful chorus. Many participants choose to walk barefoot, carry candles, or make personal sacrifices as acts of deep faith.
The atmosphere is both solemn and festive. Street vendors sell the traditional purple pastry known as turrón de Doña Pepa, an anise-flavored treat now inseparably tied to the feast. And this devotion is not limited to Peru alone—communities across the globe, from New Jersey to Madrid, have brought the Lord of Miracles to their own streets, ensuring that the tradition lives on even far from its origins in Lima.
Key Liturgical Elements
El Señor de los Milagros is one of the most significant Catholic devotions in Peru, honored with great reverence throughout October. Here are some important highlights of the celebration:
- Dates: Main procession occurs October 18, with additional processions on October 19, 28, and November 1
- Scripture Readings: Isaiah 53:1–12; Psalm 22; Hebrews 12:1–3; John 19:16–30 which feature themes of Christ’s suffering, perseverance, and redemptive love
- Prayers and Hymns: Our Father, Hail Mary, traditional Spanish hymns such as Venid y vamos todos, and prayers of petition for miracles and healing
