Things to Do in Fatima
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Fatima is an ancient city with a rich history and cultural heritage. Everyone who visits here will find something to do. Religious pilgrimages are attracted to the Holy Place of Fatima, where the memory of the apparitions of Our Lady is honored. Historical tours allow you to immerse yourself in the city’s past through its museums, monuments and architectural landmarks. For nature lovers, there are picturesque places for walks and picnics. Fatima opens doors to the world of history, religion and natural beauty.
Where is Fatima?
Fatima is a small city in Central Portugal, located about 130 kilometers northeast of Lisbon in the municipality of Ourense, the district of Santa Maria.
Sanctuary of Our Lady of Fatima – Santuario de Nossa Senhora de Fátima
Our Lady of Fátima, or Santuário de Nossa Senhora de Fátima, is one of the largest religious centers in the world and is a pilgrimage site that commemorates the statue of Our Lady to three little shepherds: Lucia, Francisco and Jacinta, which occurred in 1917 and was recognized by the Church in 1930.
This place, originally known as Cova da Iria and belonging to Lucia’s parents, was donated to the shrine and Our Lady of Fatima school. Five of the six apparitions took place here.
The Sanctuary of Our Lady of Fatima includes the chapel of the apparitions, the Basilica of Our Lady of Fatima Rosary, the prayer area and the Basilica of the Blessed Trinity.
The story of Our Lady of the Rosary of Fatima began in 1928 and was consecrated in 1953, after which it was given the title of Basilica by Pope Pius XII. Inside the basilica, there are 14 altars dedicated to the mysteries of the Rosary, as well as an impressive Italian-made organ with 152 steps and 12,000 pipes.
Church is one of the leading international destinations for religious tourism, visited by millions of pilgrims each year. Paul VI, John Paul II, Benedict XVI and Francis have all visited this place. The annual pilgrimage takes place on the 13th of each month from May through October. Admission is free.
Opening hours are subject to change depending on the season and events. It is recommended to check the official website of the sanctuary or by phone.
Address: Apartado 31,2496-908, Fátima.
Chapel of the Apparitions – Capelinha das Aparições
The Chapel of the Apparitions in Fatima, known as Capelinha das Aparições, is one of the most important shrines for Catholics in the world, and the second most important shrine in Europe after the Vatican. It is the place where Our Lady appeared to three young children in 1917, which became the site of one of the most famous religious events of the 20th century.
The tree on which the Virgin Mary appeared is located here. Between May and October 1917, the Virgin Mary appeared several times. The last apparition was seen by 70,000 people. Today Fatima apparition site is a must-visit place for both pilgrims and average tourists.
Two of the children, Jacinta and Francisco, were canonized by Pope Francis in 2017 and are considered the youngest saints in the Catholic Church. The chapel is open to the public around the clock. Admission is free.
Address: Cova de Iria Ourém 2496-908.
The Homes of the Shepherds
The Shepherds’ Houses in Fatima are historical structures associated with the life and work of Blessed Francisco and Jacinta, the two youngest children in the Marto family. These houses are located in close proximity to each other, just 200 meters from Lucia’s house, where Lucia de Jesús, the eldest of the three shepherds, was born and lived.
It was in the house of the shepherds Jacinta and Francisco that they spent their childhood years. This house was purchased by the temple in November 1996 and later remodeled. Its grounds preserve the fig trees under which the children played and the places where they hid from prying eyes.
Lucia’s house, where the first interrogations of seeing children were held, is also a historic landmark. In 1981, Sister Lucia donated the house to the temple, and in 1986 it was officially taken over by the temple. The grounds around the house have been organized for visitors, including a new information desk that opened in August.
The shepherds’ house can be visited at any time. Admission is free.
Address: R. dos Valinhos 2495-301 Fátima.
Walk Fatima’s Via Sacra dos Valinhos
A walk along Sacra dos Valiños Street in Fatima offers travelers the opportunity to experience the history and spiritual atmosphere of the place. This street is home to significant landmarks including the Valinhos Sanctuary.
Valinhos Sanctuary is a site associated with the apparitions of Our Lady of Fatima in 1917. Here, in a small valley called Valinhos, Our Lady appeared to three little shepherd girls and gave them important messages. This place is considered holy for Catholics and attracts many pilgrims from all over the world. Hours of operation and ticket prices may vary depending on the specific facilities at Sacra dos Valiños. It is recommended to check the information on the official website.
Address: R. dos Valinhos 2495-301 Fátima, Portugal.
Gruta da Moeda
Gruta da Moeda is a cave located in São Mamede, near Fatima, in the Algarve region. These caves were discovered in 1971 by two hunters while chasing a fox. Their curiosity led to the discovery of stunning limestone formations such as the “Shepherd’s Chamber” and other galleries and chambers.
Today, Gruta da Moeda is a popular tourist spot, attracting visitors with its unique formations and natural wealth. Inside you will find rooms named after their appearance, such as the Vertep, the Shepherd, the Cascade, the Virgin Mary, and others.
The cave is open daily from 09:00 to 18:00. Prices for grutas algarve tickets: Adult: €8.50 per person. Child (5 to 12 years old): €4,5 per person. Child (under 4 years old): free of charge.
Address: Largo das Grutas da Moeda s/n, Ourém 2495-028, Portugal.
Take a Guided Tour of Fatima and Nearby Cities
By guided tour from Fatima, you can visit several nearby cities and attractions. These places include:
- Batalha: Visit the Monastery of Batalha, a magnificent example of Gothic architecture recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. You can see the exquisite details of sculpture and architecture of this amazing monastery.
- Nazaré: Spend a one day tour in Nazaré coastal, known for its beautiful beaches and traditional fishing lifestyle. See the ancient fishing village of Sitiu and enjoy the ocean view from the high cliffs.
- Obidos: Visit the medieval town of Obidos, which is also a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Explore its narrow streets, old churches and fortress walls surrounding the historic city center.
- Alcobaça: End your tour in Alcobaça, where you can visit the famous palace of the Aviz dynasty and enjoy beautiful views of the Tagus River.
This full-day excursion will allow you to experience a variety of aspects of Portuguese history and culture, from the religious shrines at Fatima to the beautiful towns and landscapes of the region.
