A Pilgrimage Shrine - Fatima, Portugal

Fatima is town in central Portugal, known primarily for its religious significance in the Catholic faith. The town gained worldwide recognition due to the reported apparitions of the Virgin Mary that were witnessed by three Shepard children on the 13th of each month from May to October in 1917. The focal point of a visit to Fatima is the Sanctuary of Our Lady of Fatima which includes the the Holy Trinity Church, Basilica of Our Lady of the Rosary and the Chapel of the Apparitions.

Whether you’re a devout Catholic of simply curious about the religious and historical significance of Fatima, it is a place of deep devotion for many.

Here is what caught my eye; I hope you enjoy!

The Basilica of Our Lady of the Rosary

The detail inside the Basilica of Our Lady of the Rosary

.

Some of the statues for sale in a store window

Do you like the images posted?
Click here to explore the shop.

Fatima: A Pilgrim's Companion (Shrines)

By Baldwin, David

Fatima: The Apparition That Changed the World

By Heimann, Jean

Fatima in Lucia's Own Words: The Memoirs of Sister Lucia, the Last Fatima Visionary

By Lucia, Sister

The three Shepard children are depicted here in this monument in one of the roundabouts in Fatima.

Basilica of Our Lady of the Rosary in the distance.

Devoted followers travel to the shrine on their knees.

The stations of the cross inside the Basilica of Our Lady of the Rosary.

.

The three tombs of Lucia, Jacinta and Francisco inside the Basilica of Our Lady of the Rosary.

.

The main altar

Looking up at the stained glass windows and the ceiling inside the Basilica of Our Lady of the Rosary.

A crucifix sculpture on the grounds

The candle burning area at Fatima, where people line up to make an offering of entire candles deposited into the large burning fire station.

A copy of a photograph of the three Shepard children, Lucia, Francisco and Jacinta.

A statue of Out Lady of Fatima stands in front of the Chapel of the Apparitions. This is one of the most reverend places in Fatima. It marks the spot where the three children, Lucia, Francisco and Jacinta, reported seeing the apparitions of the Virgin Mary. The small chapel was first constructed here in 1919.

Statues of the Virgin Mary sold through the site

What you should know:

• Public restrooms are available.

• Admission is free.

• The tours of the site are self-guided.

• You could spend a couple of hours to an entire day here, depending on your level of interest.

• People are friendly, helpful and many speak English.

• There are a may different stores to purchase religious items.

• Check website for days / hours of operation and a calendar of special events.

Location: Rua de Santa Isabel, 360 2495-424 Fatima

For more information: Fatima