Travel to the hills above Braga to tour an important pilgrimage site for Catholics, an 18th-century baroque church surrounded by gardens, grottoes and sculptures.
Explore Bom Jesus Do Monte, a hilltop sanctuary that has been a site of religious pilgrimage for centuries. To visit the church and its grounds, climb the immense, baroque staircase that zigzags up the hill for 380 feet (116 metres). Alternatively, you can reach the top by car or by taking one of Portugal’s oldest funiculars.
If you decide to take the stairs, pause at the numerous landings to admire their statues, baroque decorations and fountains. One of the water features symbolises the wounds of Christ, while five others represent the five senses. You will need to be reasonably fit to climb the stairs because there are approximately 600 in total. Once you reach the top, enjoy sweeping views over the city and the beaches of Esposende and Viana do Castelo.
The name Bom Jesus do Monte translates as Good Jesus of the Mount and construction started in 1722. The sanctuary was built on the site of a 14th-century chapel and draws pilgrims who seek a contemplative and penitential experience.
Spend a few minutes studying the main church's grand façade and its two bell towers. Then go on a self-guided tour of the interior. Admire the ceiling murals and the depiction of the crucifixion of Jesus that adorns the main altar. After you have studied the numerous works of art and enjoyed a few moments of quiet reflection, step outside for stroll through the sanctuary’s colourful gardens. You will come across grottos, statues and ponds.
Bom Jesus Do Monte lies about 3 miles (5 kilometres) southeast of Braga. If you are driving, allow plenty of time to navigate the roads. There is also a bus service from Braga to the sanctuary.
If possible, try and plan your trip around Easter, known as Semana Santa in Portugal when, you will see many pilgrims climb the stairs, some on their hands and knees in penance.
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