Lisbon, Portugal, 29 January 2025 – A ceremony was held yesterday at the Diwan of the Ismaili Imamat to mark the signing of a partnership agreement for the rehabilitation of the historic Chapel of Nossa Senhora da Aflição, located in Branzelo, Gondomar.

This initiative follows the devastating wildfires that swept through this northern municipality of Portugal just east of Porto in the summer of 2024, causing significant damage to the chapel and the surrounding area. In the wake of the disaster, the Ismaili Imamat extended an offer of support to Portugal. Subsequent discussions with the Portuguese Government, who conveyed gratitude for the support, identified the chapel’s rehabilitation as a symbolically important project, embodying interfaith cooperation and community solidarity.

The agreement was signed by representatives of the Ismaili Imamat, Gondomar City Hall, the local Parish of Melres and Medas, and the family who owns the property. At the ceremony, Prince Amyn Aga Khan welcomed approximately 30 distinguished guests and shared brief remarks, concluding:

“This project, I believe, is not only about restoring a chapel – it’s about preserving our collective heritage, reaffirming shared values and strengthening the bonds that unite us.”

Among the guests were representatives from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, local government, Church leaders including the Apostolic Nuncio and Patriarch of Lisbon, and faculty of the Catholic University of Portugal. The Diplomatic Representative of the Ismaili Imamat, Nazim Ahmad, other senior officials from the Ismaili Imamat and leadership of the Aga Khan Development Network also attended.

A symbol of interfaith cooperation and community resilience

The Chapel of Nossa Senhora da Aflição is a centuries-old place of worship, deeply rooted in the cultural and spiritual fabric of the local community. The chapel was almost entirely destroyed during the fires, leaving only its cracked walls as a reminder of its legacy. Local residents, inspired by their devotion to Our Lady of Affliction, have united to restore the chapel, recognising its historical, cultural and moral significance.

In collaboration with local government and the chapel’s owners, the Aga Khan Trust for Culture is providing technical expertise and best practices on sustainability, reflecting a shared commitment to preserving cultural heritage and strengthening the enduring partnership between the Ismaili Imamat and Portugal. The project also highlights the long-standing relationship with the Catholic Church, built on shared values of compassion and service.

Looking ahead

The inauguration of the refurbished chapel is planned for 7 September 2025, coinciding with the traditional procession of Nossa Senhora da Aflição, a key annual religious and cultural event.