Bom Jesus da Lapa

Bom Jesus da Lapa

Situated on the banks of the São Francisco River, in the back country of Bahia, Bom Jesus da Lapa is a famous pilgrim center, that over 800,000 people visit every year, chiefly in July.

The shrines and sanctuaries people come to revere are inside 15 caves in the surrounding hills. The larger, maze-like caves, that are most visited, are Senhor Bom Jesus, Nossa Senhora da Soledade and Santa Luzia. Curiously, the stalactite and stalagmites formations inside of the caves provide supports for statues and images, and even for the baptismal font. Most pilgrims come to Bom Jesus in buses or trucks from other parts of the Bahia interior, and from Minas Gerais. The streets are lined with dozens of booths where Bom Jesus wristbands and T-shirts are sold, as well as replicas of body parts.

These are taken into the caves with request for miracle, or in thanks for divine favors. Intermingling with the sacred item stalls, gaily decorated, brilliantly lit booths selling, apart from religious memorabilia, plastic toys, flowers and other inexpensive souvenirs.

The typical Northeastern musicians and poets complete a scenario into which profane aspects have increasingly been incorporated.

Visitors also can have their pictures taken. Many also climb the hill higher, above the caves, for the view over the city and the São Francisco River. At these times, the town administration also organises shows and presentations with regional bands and theater groups. Hotels and guesthouses are packed. The Bom Jesus religious tradition began in the early 17^th century. Now, from July to September pilgrims from several parts of Brazil dominate the streets of the city. The populace is very proud of the São Francisco River.

A big bridge spans it near Bom Jesus. The pier under it has become a meeting point for fishermen, and also visitors, who can go for boat rides. Life there is directly connected to the river all the time.

The economy of Bom Jesus is based on irrigated subsistence farming, and water is taken from the São Francisco, and also the Corrente River which crosses the Sitio da Mata district, near Bom Jesus. Castle and pigs are also raised on a small scale. A common sight when on a boat ride will be men fishing, women washing cloths and children playing along the banks.