The Sacred Site of Fatima
Located 142 kilometers North of Lisbon, the town of Fatima has the honor of being known for one of the most important Catholic shrines in the world. The Sacred Site of Fatima is dedicated to the Virgin Mary and is one of the most breathtaking sites in all of Europe. Fatima’s Sanctuary was constructed on the site of world renowned Apparitions of Our Lady of the Rosary where the Virgin Mary was reported to have appeared in front of three shepherd children in 1917.
The Day The Sun Danced in Fatima
On the 13th day of each month between May and October of 1917, the Virgin Mary is reported to have appeared to three shepherd children; Lucia dos Santos and her two younger cousins, Francisco and Jacinta, in the fields outside the village of Aljustrel near Fatima. Millions of pilgrims and tourists from all over the world visit Fatima’s Sanctuary every year, drawn by apparitions of the Virgin Mary reported by these three children.
The children witnessed several apparitions in Fatima during the above said time period. The last one on October 13th, was confirmed by a miracle witnessed by 60,000 people known in the catholic world as “the day the sun danced.”
Though the mystical significance of this religious site of Fatima in Portugal is the greatest attraction for visitors, the beauty of the place is also a fascination. One great highlight of the sanctuary is the 213-foot tower. One could spend all day simply wondering at the beautiful architecture and droves of pilgrims.
On your visit to the Fatima shrine, you will get authentic account of its unique history and the young visionaries who inspired its creation. You can see the very heart of the compound where the Chapel of Apparitions marks the sacred spot. Other attractions to be sure to see include the huge church organ bearing almost 12 thousand pipes, the high altar painting depicting the Virgin Mary’s message to the children, and the Berlin Wall Monument. There are also plenty of alternative activities in the surrounding area.
You can visit Fatima, Portugal as pre or post tour with a Douro River Cruise. Book your trip with us and visit the holy site!