From massacre to miracle

In this talk, guest speaker Martin Fotta retraces how the killing of a Romani boy in rural Piauí turned into the cult of Ciganinho Milagroso. Drawing on oral histories and archives, we'll analyse how a site of violence became a place of pilgrimage, revealing how faith and memory shape ideas of Romani belonging in Brazil.

In a quiet village in Piauí, northern Brazil, a small chapel stands beside a great courbaril tree. It is dedicated to Ciganinho Milagroso—the Miraculous Little Gypsy Boy. Locals say that more than a century ago, a group of Romani people passed through the area but were hunted down by police and armed men. A young boy tried to hide in the tree, but he was found and killed. Years later, when an epidemic struck the village, people believed the tragedy had returned to haunt them: that the sickness was punishment for the death of an innocent soul. Over time, the place where the boy died became sacred: pilgrims began to light candles and ask for miracles.

This talk follows the story of how grief turned into devotion, and how violence, faith, and memory came to shape local ideas of belonging. It also asks what this story tells us about the place of Romani people in Brazil, both excluded from and woven into its spiritual life.

Organised by CEDLA.

About Cedla

The Centre for Latin American Research and Documentation (CEDLA) Lecture Series is a public event programme that brings together international experts to share insights and new publications on Latin America. Each session features a 45-minute talk, followed by comments from a discussant and an open Q&A with the audience. Whether you’re a student, researcher, or simply curious about the region, you’re welcome to join the conversation. We’ll end the evening with drinks and nibbles at VOX-POP.

Banner by Maurício Guardiano.