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Cantiga CSM 316 of the Cantigas de Santa Maria of Alfonso X

The Jealous Priest who Committed Arson

Folio 109 recto of codex Florencia Ms Banco Rari 20

   In the fortress town of Alenquer, there was a priest named Martim Alvítez. He was the prior of a church, but he also composed satirical songs. In addition, he was a confidante of King don Sancho.
   A miraculous site was discovered across the river from the city, and an altar was erected there. Pilgrims came from far and wide to visit it, and the Virgin performed many miracles of healing at that place.
   When don Martinho saw this, he grew jealous because oblations were being diverted from his church to this one. He set fire to the other church and burned it to the ground.
   This act greatly displeased the Virgin, and her son avenged her immediately. He caused Martim Alvítez to go blind.
   The troubadour priest repented and vowed to rebuild the church in stone. When the building had been completed, he went there and had the mass sung.
   As soon as the mass had been said, he was cured and began to weep. He promised to devote all his songs to the Virgin from that time forth.
Source: BNCF, Banco Rari 20


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