Fatima, located about 130 km north of Lisbon, is a small town that is home to one of the most important pilgrimage sites in the world. The shrine of Our Lady of Fatima attracts millions of visitors each year to gather and pray. But Fatima offers much more than that, as a city rich in history and culture.
Fatima's history dates back to 1917, when three young shepherds claimed to have seen apparitions of the Virgin Mary. These apparitions led to the construction of the Marian Shrine, which is now the heart of the city. The shrine includes the Basilica of Our Lady of the Rosary, the Chapel of the Apparitions and the Basilica of the Holy Trinity. Visitors can also see the house where the children lived, as well as a museum that tells the story of the apparitions and the town.
In addition to its religious significance, Fatima also offers interesting cultural and historical activities. Visitors can experience the local architecture in the old town, which includes whitewashed houses and narrow cobblestone streets. The Chapel of the Bones, a small chapel located in the Church of St. Francis, is a unique example of macabre art, with walls and ceilings covered entirely with human bones.
The Basílica de Nossa Senhora do Rosário is an emblematic monument of the Catholic faith. This majestic basilica, built in 1928, is the most important place of worship in the Portuguese city.
The building, in neo-baroque style, has an impressive facade decorated with sculptures and stone reliefs, as well as a large dome on top. Inside the basilica, visitors can admire the splendid architecture, with colorful stained glass windows, elegant columns and intricate artistic decorations.
But what really draws pilgrims to the Basílica de Nossa Senhora do Rosário is the statue of Our Lady of Fatima, which has been venerated here since the three shepherd children claimed to have seen her during their apparitions in 1917. The statue, which represents the Virgin Mary as she appeared to the children, is located on the main altar and is surrounded by floral decorations.
To get to Santa Barbara Castle, on Mount Benacantil, and enjoy the best view of the bay and port of Fatima, leave the city center in the direction of the Ereta Park. From there, take the very steep Paseo Alto and finally arrive at the entrance to the fortress. This castle belonged to the Arabs at the time, and was taken by Alfonso X of Castile in the 13th century. It consists of 3 enclosures, the main outbuildings including the court of arms, the keep, and finally the lower enclosure, more recent, which dates from the eighteenth century.
This religious shrine is known as the exact spot where the Virgin Mary appeared to three children in 1917. Since then, millions of pilgrims from all over the world come every year to visit this sacred place.
The Capelinha das Aparições is a small chapel where pilgrims can enter and meditate in front of the statue of the Virgin Mary that was erected at the place of the apparition. The chapel is surrounded by a large open-air space, which can accommodate up to 300,000 people for masses and important celebrations.
The history of the Capelinha das Aparições is closely linked to the story of Fatima and the three children who saw her appear. Lucia Santos, Francisco Marto and Jacinta Marto claimed to have seen a “beautiful lady” who asked them to recite the rosary every day for world peace. The Virgin has appeared six times in all, with the last apparition being witnessed by over 70,000 people.
By visiting the Capelinha das Aparições, pilgrims can feel the peace and serenity that emanates from this sacred place. The sanctuary is open all year round and celebrations take place daily. If you are looking for spirituality and inner peace, the Capelinha das Aparições is a place not to be missed when visiting Fatima.
The Basílica da Santíssima Trindade is a church built in 2007 to accommodate the growing number of pilgrims visiting the shrine of Fatima. It is located near the Capelinha das Aparições and the Basilica of Our Lady of the Rosary.
The church has a capacity of 8,700 people and has an impressive architecture. It consists of a large central nave, two aisles, a baptistery and a chapel of reconciliation.
Located in the central region of Portugal, the city of Ourém is a must-see during your visit to Fatima.
During your visit to Ourém , you can’t miss the medieval castle, built in the 13th century. It offers a breathtaking view of the city and its surroundings, as well as a fascinating historical experience. You can also visit the Chapel of Our Lady of Conception, which is located within the castle grounds.
The main square of Ourém is also a must-see place to stroll, with its cobblestone streets, colorful houses and small cafes. Here you can stroll around admiring the traditional architecture of the region, as well as the historical fountain that is located in the center of the square.
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