The chapel located in Branzelo was destroyed by a fire that swept through the region between September 15 and September 19, 2024. The municipal council opted to seek private support to ensure its restoration, which will be marked on Sunday morning, coinciding with the annual celebration honoring Nossa Senhora da Aflição, according to a statement from the local authorities.
The restoration was made possible through a partnership between the Gondomar City Council, the Ismaili Imamat led by Aga Khan through the Aga Khan Trust for Culture (AKTC), the Union of Parishes of Melres and Medas, and the family of the landowner. The project represents an investment of 500,000 euros, with 375,000 euros provided by the Ismaili Imamat, the press release states.
Gondomar was responsible for offering technical support in project development and, during the construction phase, ensured supervision, oversight, and safety coordination, the statement continues.
In collaboration with the family that owns the chapel and the Union of Parishes of Melres and Medas, the municipality also ensured the replacement of the interior assets, including the altar, sacred sculptures, and furniture. Although the chapel is a private space, it will remain open to the community for public use, the statement adds.
