Sanctuary of Our Lady of Nazaré, Religious sanctuary on hilltop Sítio, Nazaré, Portugal.
The Sanctuary of Our Lady of Nazaré sits on a hilltop overlooking the town and has two prominent bell towers as its main landmark. The interior is decorated with painted tile panels and religious artwork that adorns the walls throughout the space.
Construction began in the 1370s when royal order called for a new building to house the growing number of pilgrims arriving at the site. The sanctuary evolved over the centuries into a major center of worship for the region.
The site holds deep significance for pilgrims devotional to the Virgin Mary, and visitors notice the Portuguese tile work covering the interior that tells biblical stories through craftsmanship. This artistic approach shaped how people understood and practiced their faith in this space.
Visitors can ride a funicular railway up from the beachfront area, or walk up the winding paths to reach the building. The climb gives you good views as you approach the hilltop location.
Inside you will find a statue of Mary with the child wrapped in a green cloak decorated with gold ornaments that was once a royal gift. This carefully made figure has been a focal point for visitors over many generations.
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