The Miracle of All Miracles in Calanda

Miguel-Juan Pellicer, born in 1617 to a poor farming family in Calanda, suffered a severe leg injury at age 19 when he fell under a grain wagon while working for his uncle near Castellon de la Plata. After seeking help at the Virgin of Pilar sanctuary in Zaragoza, his gangrenous leg was amputated below the knee at the Royal Hospital of Grace in October 1637. The amputated limb was buried in the cemetery by practitioner Juan Lorenzo Garcia. For three years, Miguel-Juan begged for alms near the Sanctuary, attending daily Mass and anointing his stump with oil from the tabernacle lamp. In March 1640, after returning home and following his usual devotions, he went to sleep. When his mother checked on him, she discovered two feet protruding from beneath the blanket—his amputated leg had been miraculously restored, though it was pale, smaller, and had less muscle mass but was perfectly functional.

Scientific analysis

The restored leg was described as pale and smaller in size and muscular mass, but perfectly vital and functional, allowing him to walk. The original amputation was performed with saw and scalpel below the knee and cauterized with red hot metal.

The miracle is commemorated at the Sanctuary of the Virgin of Pilar in Zaragoza, with ancient paintings depicting the miracle and original notarized documents preserved. The case has been visited by multiple Popes including John Paul II and Pius XII.

Church recognition

This miracle has local Church veneration, pilgrimage sites, or chapels, but no formal diocesan investigation or decree has been documented.