Santuário de Nossa Senhora da Abadia, Marian sanctuary in Santa Maria do Bouro, Portugal
The Santuário de Nossa Senhora da Abadia is a sanctuary in Santa Maria do Bouro featuring a church with three naves supported by Tuscan columns and an 18th-century organ. The site includes multiple chapels, a sacred art museum, and is set within a forested mountainous area.
The first sanctuary was built between the 7th and 8th centuries, though the current structure dates from the 17th century. The facade was rebuilt in 1725 and continues to define its appearance today.
Eight chapels line a steep path depicting scenes from the Virgin Mary's life, guiding visitors along a sacred pilgrimage route through the mountainside. These arranged shrines shape how people experience and walk through this spiritual journey today.
The site is open to visitors year-round with no entrance fee, though a sacred art museum is located on the grounds. The steep pilgrimage path requires proper footwear and reasonable fitness levels.
A natural stream called Nava flows near the sanctuary and forms waterfalls that wind through the forest landscape. These water features complement the religious structures and create a tranquil water-shaped setting.
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