A Memorable Day at Fatima: Sanctuary Visit, Basilicas, & Vast Pilgrimage Square
You'll be greeted first by the Sanctuary of Our Lady of Fatima, a Catholic shrine dedicated to the Virgin Mary. The centerpiece of the sanctuary is the Chapel of Apparitions, which pays tribute to the remarkable story of three children who believed the Virgin Mary appeared before them in 1917. This chapel stands as a symbol of the dreams and aspirations of countless pilgrims who visit the shrine every day.
Close by, you'll find two imposing basilicas: the Basilica of Our Lady of the Rosary and the Basilica of the Holy Trinity. Both hold important icons and works of art, and symbolize different periods of the city's history. The Basilica of Our Lady of the Rosary, built in the early 20th century in Neo-Baroque style, shelters tombs of the three seers. The Basilica of the Holy Trinity, considered the fourth largest Christian church in the world by capacity, is an impressive piece of contemporary architecture, offering a more modern perspective to your visit.
The spacious pilgrimage square or the esplanade, crowned by the Monument to the Sacred Heart of Jesus, is also a key place to visit. Not only does it accommodate religious processions, but also serves as a gathering place for the faithful. The sight of thousands of pilgrims moving in unison across the vast square is awe-inspiring and an experience to be treasured.