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Sanctuary · Fátima, Santarém
Santuário de Fátima
One of the largest Catholic pilgrimage centers in the world, featuring the Capelinha das Aparições, the Basilica of Our Lady of the Rosary, where the three little shepherds are buried, and the Basilica of the Most Holy Trinity.
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 de Fátima
The Sanctuary of Fátima occupies the Cova da Iria, where, between May and October 1917, the shepherd children Lúcia, Francisco and Jacinta said they saw Our Lady. The Church recognized the apparitions in 1930, and Francisco and Jacinta were canonized in 2017.
The Capelinha das Aparições, on the exact spot of the visions, is the heart of the sanctuary. In front of it a large prayer area stretches to the Basilica of Our Lady of the Rosary, with its tall tower, built between 1928 and 1953, where the three shepherd children are buried.
On the other side of the esplanade stands the Basilica of the Most Holy Trinity, inaugurated in 2007, one of the largest Catholic churches in the world, with thousands of seats. Nearby there is a tall cross and the pastoral center.
Throughout the day there are Masses in several languages, including Portuguese. At night the rosary and the candlelight procession gather pilgrims on the grounds.
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
From two hours to a full day.
Best time
On 12 and 13 May and October the major pilgrimages take place, with the shrine very crowded. Outside those dates the visit is quieter. Check the schedule of the celebrations.
How to get there
It is in the center of Fátima, a few minutes' walk from the bus terminal.
Tip
Respect moments of prayer and silence at the Capelinha. Bring a jacket for the candlelight procession at night.
Official website
Get your questions answered
Frequently asked questions about Santuário de Fátima
Where are the shepherd children buried?
In the Basílica de Nossa Senhora do Rosário, in the sanctuary.
What is the Capelinha das Aparições?
A small chapel built on the exact site of the 1917 apparitions.
Is there Mass in Portuguese at the sanctuary?
Yes, there are Masses in Portuguese and in several other languages throughout the day. Check the times.
When did the apparitions take place?
Between May and October 1917.