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Sanctuary · Braga, Braga
Santuário do Bom Jesus do Monte
Sanctuary atop a hill about 6 km from Braga’s center, with a zigzag Baroque stairway, fountains and chapels, and a Neoclassical basilica at the top. World Heritage since 2019.
Illustrative images. The pictures in this guide are illustrations based on the real place, not photographs, and may differ from it.
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About Santuário do Bom Jesus do Monte
Bom Jesus do Monte is a pilgrimage sanctuary built over more than 600 years on a hill east of Braga. The present complex was developed mainly in the 18th and 19th centuries, under the patronage of the archbishops of Braga.
The baroque, zigzag staircase climbs the slope in granite flights with white walls. The lower section is the Via-Sacra, with chapels depicting the Passion of Christ. Above are the Escadório dos Cinco Sentidos, with fountains representing sight, smell, taste, hearing and touch, and the Escadório das Três Virtudes.
At the top, the neoclassical basilica, built between 1784 and 1811, is one of the earliest of its kind in Portugal. Around it is a park with a lake, grottoes, hotels and restaurants.
The sanctuary was designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2019. Besides the staircase, a road also climbs to the summit.
Before you go
Practical information
Cidade Turismo reviews its information regularly, but something may have changed. Check with the place before planning your trip.
How much time to set aside
About one and a half to two hours, including the walk up.
Best time
In the morning, for the light on the staircase, or late afternoon for the view over Braga. Weekends and holidays are busier.
How to get there
It is about 6 km from Braga city centre. Local buses go up to the base of the staircase; by car or taxi the road reaches the top.
Tip
If you prefer not to climb the steps, you can reach the top by car or taxi and walk down the staircase. Wear comfortable shoes.
Official website
Get your questions answered
Frequently asked questions about Santuário do Bom Jesus do Monte
Is Bom Jesus a World Heritage Site?
Yes — since 2019.
What is the Escadório dos Cinco Sentidos?
A stretch of the stairway with fountains that represent the five senses.
How do you get up to Bom Jesus?
Via the stairway on foot, or by car or taxi along the road to the top.
How far is it from the centre of Braga?
About 6 km.