Friends of Boa Onda Guesthouse Peniche welcome back with news from our specialised blog on Portugal. Today’s post is dedicated to discovering which are the places of pilgrimage in Portugal, or rather the destinations of spiritual journeys that every year bring hundreds of thousands of pilgrims to discover the beauty of Portugal. Indeed, you are well aware that Portugal, land of navigators and conquistadors, is also a country where spirituality and devotion are deeply rooted. If you are looking for a mystical experience or simply want to discover fascinating places steeped in history, Portugal is the right place for you!
Below you will find some of the most beautiful and evocative pilgrimage sites to visit in this magical land.
Places of pilgrimage in Portugal: a journey between the sacred and the profane
Fatima, the beating heart of Portuguese devotion
Fatima is undoubtedly the most famous place of pilgrimage in Portugal. Here, in 1917, three shepherd children – Lúcia, Francisco and Jacinta – witnessed the apparition of Our Lady, who gave them three prophetic messages known as ‘the secrets of Fatima’. Since then, the site has become one of the main centres of Marian devotion in the world.
The light of the Sanctuary of Our Lady of Fatima
The Sanctuary of Our Lady of Fatima is the heart of this holy place, with its splendid white basilica and the modern Church of the Holy Trinity. During the celebrations on 13 May and 13 October, thousands of pilgrims gather here to pray, light candles and participate in the impressive candle procession. A visit to Fatima is a unique and unforgettable experience that will leave you with a sense of peace and serenity. If you would like to understand how to travel from Peniche to Fatima, we recommend you read our dedicated guide.
Santiago de Compostela, a path to infinity
A pilgrimage as old as time
Not everyone knows that the famous Way of Santiago de Compostela, a destination for pilgrims from all over the world, also passes through Portugal. The Portuguese Way, about 600 kilometres long, starts from the city of Lisbon and winds its way through enchanting landscapes, medieval villages and historical monuments, until it reaches the majestic Cathedral of Santiago de Compostela in Spain.
A road to inner discovery
Walking the Portuguese Way is more than just a hike: it is an inner journey, a personal challenge and an opportunity to reflect on one’s life. Along the way, you will meet pilgrims from all corners of the globe, share experiences and stories, and discover the true essence of the spirit of sharing and brotherhood that animates the Camino.
Braga, the sacred city of Portugal
Bom Jesus do Monte, the mountain of wonders
Braga, the former religious capital of Portugal, is famous for its majestic Bom Jesus do Monte Sanctuary. This place of worship, located on the top of a hill, is reached via a scenic Baroque staircase, symbolising the spiritual path to redemption. The panoramic view from the top is breathtaking and will make you feel like you are on top of the world.
Braga, a city of history and devotion
Braga has a long history of religious devotion, with numerous churches, cathedrals and monasteries scattered around the city. Braga Cathedral, the oldest in Portugal, is an architectural gem, mixing Romanesque, Gothic and Baroque styles. As you delve into the heart of the city, be sure to visit the Tibães Monastery and the church of Santa Maria Madalena, two hidden gems of this fascinating corner of Portugal.
Conclusion: a journey between the sacred and the profane
Portugal is a land of contrasts, where the sacred and the profane mingle in a fascinating and mysterious combination. Whether you are a believer or a lover of art and history, Portugal’s pilgrimage sites will captivate and surprise you. Fatima, the Pilgrim’s Way to Santiago and Braga are just some of the unmissable stops on this spiritual and emotional journey that will lead you to discover a deeper and more authentic side of Portugal. So, pack your backpack, put comfortable shoes on your feet and let your heart guide you: Portugal is waiting for you, with its stories of faith, devotion and hidden wonders. Enjoy your trip
If you would like to organise a stopover at our guesthouse in Peniche, you can write to the following email: info@boaondaguesthosuepeniche.com to get all the clarifications you need about the services of our guesthouse.
Until next time and have fun in Portugal!
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