Santuário de São Bento da Porta Aberta, Religious sanctuary in Rio Caldo, Portugal
The Santuário de São Bento da Porta Aberta is a religious sanctuary next to the Caniçada reservoir, with a basilica that blends neoclassical and neo-baroque architectural styles. The building includes multiple sections designed for worship and prayer, with the calm waters of the reservoir shaping the surrounding landscape.
The site began in 1615 as a small chapel that kept its doors permanently open to shelter travelers crossing the region. Over the centuries it grew into a larger sanctuary, eventually gaining basilica status in 2015.
The sanctuary welcomes pilgrims year-round who come to pray and express their devotion in the peaceful setting by the water. The name "Open Door" reflects how the site has always been accessible to all travelers passing through the region.
Entry is free, and the sanctuary is open daily with weekday services in the morning and additional offerings on weekends and religious holidays. Visitors should plan for larger crowds during major pilgrimage days, so arriving early is helpful for a quieter experience.
The sanctuary attracts millions of visitors annually and ranks among the most visited religious sites on the Iberian Peninsula. This widespread popularity reveals the diverse pilgrims who journey here from both near and far.
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