Milagros

Milagros, borrowing their name from the Spanish word for "miracle", are a common symbol seen throughout the greater Spanish-speaking world, both on the Iberian Peninsula and in the Americas. They are one of the most charming examples of what's known as a votive offering; a token or charm often placed in a auspicious or symbolic place without intention of recovery. The practice dates back as far as Neolithic times, with small figures of wild animals buried in preferred hunting grounds. 

This rich tradition serves a dual purpose: not only does it express thanks to Saints and Holy Intercessors in the Catholic tradition, but is believed in folklore to help ward off and even bring solace from any number of misfortunes. Thus, a farmer's cow milagro protects his heard from diseases; two young sweethearts tie a small heart milagro in a local tree where a saint once appeared, cementing their love; in one famous example, Hernán Cortés is said to have placed a gold scorpion at the shrine of Our Lady of Guadalupe, believing it kept him from harm. 

We've scoured the world looking for the best examples of these emblems to bring them to you, whether they adorn one of your walls or personal shrine, are turned into a lucky necklace, or are simply gifted to someone else that you think might need a little miracle.