Braga, April 18, 2025

As part of the celebrations for World Heritage Day, this year dedicated by ICOMOS to the theme “Resilient Heritage in the Face of Disasters and Conflicts,” the Confraria do Bom Jesus do Monte publicly presents the restoration of an artistic set of great historical and symbolic value, returning it to its original place in the Main Altar of the Sanctuary.

During the inventory process of the Confraria’s movable assets—a UNESCO recommendation now nearing completion—a remarkable set was identified, consisting of six candlesticks, four vases, and an altar cross, dating back to 1904. This piece was commissioned by Augusto da Rocha Romariz, the 2nd Lord of Quinta do Castelo do Bom Jesus, and donated to the Confraria on September 11 of the same year.

The work was entrusted to the silversmith Manuel Casimiro da Costa and executed by his son, the young chiseler Narciso Marques Casimiro da Costa, who was only 14 years old at the time, demonstrating impressive technical mastery. Despite being made of non-precious metal, this set stands out for the quality of its craftsmanship and the presence of the Portuguese Royal Coat of Arms on each candlestick, recalling the title of Royal Sanctuary bestowed upon Bom Jesus by King João VI in 1822.

After assessing its condition and consulting historical records, it was decided to proceed with a full restoration and the reinstatement of the set in the Main Altar of the Basilica, in line with its original location. This altar, where six candles traditionally flank a central crucifix, symbolizes the Jewish candelabrum from the Old Testament, now Christianized with Christ as the central and eternal light.

Cón. Mário Martins, President of the Confraria, emphasizes:

“It is our duty to safeguard and enhance the heritage of the Sanctuary. This restoration is a symbolic gesture of commitment to memory, spirituality, and UNESCO’s values. On this World Heritage Day, we reaffirm Bom Jesus as a beacon of peace and resilience in the face of adversity.”

The restored set can now be admired during liturgical celebrations, returning to the temple a piece that unites art, faith, and history, while contributing to the ongoing mission of preserving UNESCO World Heritage.