An
ex-voto is a
votive offering to a
saint or to a
divinity. It is given in fulfillment of a vow (hence the
Latin term, short for
ex voto suscepto, "from the vow made") or in gratitude or devotion. Ex-votos are placed in a
church or
chapel where the worshiper seeks grace or wishes to give thanks. The destinations of
pilgrimages often include
shrines decorated with ex-votos.