Ismaili.NET - Heritage F.I.E.L.D.

Prince Aly Muhammad attended the September 7, 2025, reopening ceremony for the Chapel of Our Lady of Affliction in Branzelo, Portugal, a structure rebuilt after being damaged by 2024 wildfires. The chapel's restoration was a collaborative effort between the Ismaili Imamat, the Aga Khan Trust for Culture, local authorities, and the Catholic Church, symbolizing interfaith solidarity and strengthening community ties.

During the ceremony, the Aga Khan Foundation and Gondomar municipality signed a protocol to advance local social and community initiatives.

“The restoration is not only of great importance to the local community and those who worship here, but also symbolises the solidarity between the Ismaili Imamat and the Catholic Church, and our respective institutions,” said Prince Aly Muhammad Aga Khan. “It is also a testament to the strength of the bond between the Ismaili Imamat and the Portuguese Republic – a bond anchored in the shared values of respect for human dignity, pluralism and a commitment to bring hope and opportunity to all peoples, regardless of faith or origin.”

Details of the Revival:
Event: The reopening ceremony for the Chapel of Our Lady of Affliction in Branzelo.
Prince Aly Muhammad's Role: He attended and delivered a speech at the event, representing the Ismaili Imamat and highlighting the importance of interfaith cooperation.

The Chapel: A historic 1884 chapel located on a hilltop in Branzelo that was damaged by the 2024 wildfires.

Collaborative Restoration: The project involved a partnership between the Aga Khan Trust for Culture, the Ismaili Imamat, the local municipality (Gondomar), and the Catholic Church.

Significance: The restoration project is important not only for the local community but also for symbolizing solidarity between the Ismaili and Catholic faiths and advancing community initiatives.

Preservation Approach: The restoration incorporated modern safety and accessibility features while using traditional materials and artisanal techniques to preserve the chapel's historical character.