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 the parish of Santa Maria do Bouro, set on a forested hillside in northern Portugal. The main church has three naves supported by Tuscan columns and an 18th-century organ, and the grounds also include a sacred art museum.
A first shrine is believed to have been built on this site in the 7th or 8th century, though the current building dates from the 17th century. The facade was remodeled in 1725 and has defined the appearance of the sanctuary ever since.
Eight chapels line the steep path up to the sanctuary, each showing a scene from the life of the Virgin Mary and guiding visitors step by step through a pilgrimage route on the hillside. The path is still walked by pilgrims today, especially in August during the feast of the patron saint.
The sanctuary is open year-round and entry is free, though visiting the chapels along the path and the museum inside takes some time to do properly. The climb is steep, so sturdy footwear is a good idea.
A small stream called Nava runs through the forest near the sanctuary and forms a series of waterfalls that visitors pass on their way up. The sound of the water follows the pilgrim path and comes as an unexpected part of the visit.
The community of curious travelers
AroundUs brings together thousands of curated places, local tips, and hidden gems, enriched daily by 60,000 contributors worldwide.
