Sanctuary of Our Lady of Fátima Guide
Sanctuary of Fátima: A Place of Faith and Pilgrimage Guide
Welcome to the Sanctuary of Our Lady of Fátima, one of the most important Catholic pilgrimage sites in the world. Located in Fátima, Portugal, this sacred place commemorates the apparitions of the Virgin Mary to three shepherd children in 1917. Millions of pilgrims and visitors from around the globe come to Fátima each year to pray, reflect, and experience the spiritual atmosphere of this remarkable sanctuary. The story of Fátima began on May 13, 1917, when three shepherd children – Lúcia Santos and her cousins Jacinta and Francisco Marto – reported seeing the Virgin Mary. The apparitions continued on the 13th of each month until October, culminating in the "Miracle of the Sun," witnessed by thousands. The messages conveyed by the Virgin Mary, known as the "Three Secrets of Fátima," have had a profound impact on the Catholic Church and the world. The Sanctuary was built in response to these events and has grown into a vast complex of religious buildings and monuments. Visitors to the Sanctuary can participate in daily masses, visit the Chapel of Apparitions (built on the site of the apparitions), pray the Rosary, and walk the Holy Way. The Basilica of Our Lady of the Rosary and the Basilica of the Most Holy Trinity are also must-see landmarks within the Sanctuary. The Fátima area offers traditional Portuguese cuisine. Try the local "leitão à Bairrada" (suckling pig) or "caldo verde" (kale soup) at nearby restaurants. You can also find many shops selling religious souvenirs and local crafts.
Transportation
Fátima is accessible by bus from major cities in Portugal, including Lisbon and Porto. The bus station is located a short walk from the Sanctuary. There is also a train station in Fátima, but it is located further from the Sanctuary and requires a bus or taxi ride to reach the main site.