Basílica do Bom Jesus do Monte, Religious sanctuary in Tenões, Portugal
The Basílica do Bom Jesus do Monte is a neoclassical church perched atop a monumental staircase containing 583 steps and fronted by a portico with four Tuscan columns. Inside, the building follows a Latin cross layout and features a dome crowned with sculptures.
Construction of this sanctuary began in 1784 under architect Carlos Amarante, who replaced an earlier church with this new neoclassical design. The work was completed in 1811 when the final stone was laid.
The basilica has served as a pilgrimage site where visitors come to venerate the relics of Saint Clement held within its walls. This spiritual role continues to shape how people experience and use the space today.
Visitors can reach the basilica either by climbing the staircase or using the Bom Jesus funicular from 1882, the first of its kind in the Iberian Peninsula. Early morning visits tend to offer a quieter experience of the site.
Six straight-sided windows puncture the interior walls and flood the space below with natural light. Above the sanctuary stand four statues representing the great doctors of the Church.
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