Sanctuary of Our Lady of Nazaré
Leiria
The Sanctuary of Our Lady of Nazaré, located on the hilltop called O Sítio overlooking Nazaré, Portugal, is a significant Marian shrine commemorating a miraculous event attributed to the Virgin Mary. Founded in the 14th century by King Ferdinand, it was built to accommodate the growing number of devotees, expanding from the original small chapel called Ermida da Memoria. The sanctuary houses a wooden Black Madonna statue brought from Mérida in 711, which is central to the site's religious significance. Architecturally, the church features a Latin cross layout with a single nave, a richly decorated Baroque altar with marbled and Solomonic columns, and a wooden painted ceiling. The interior is adorned with thousands of Dutch azulejos (tiles) by Willem van der Kloet, illustrating biblical scenes from the lives of Joseph, David, and Jonah. The facade is marked by two square bell towers and a semicircular staircase leading to the entrance. Each year on September 8th, the sanctuary hosts a vibrant romaria (religious festival) attracting pilgrims and tourists with processions, folk dances, and traditional bullfights. The sanctuary remains a vital pilgrimage site and a cultural landmark, blending medieval origins with later Baroque and Dutch artistic influences.
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Tip: Visit early in the morning or late afternoon to avoid crowds and enjoy the serene atmosphere. The annual religious festival on September 8th is a unique cultural experience but expect large crowds. It is advisable to check mass times if you wish to attend religious services. Tickets are generally not required, but donations are welcome. Wear comfortable shoes for the hilltop ascent and explore nearby viewpoints for panoramic views of Nazaré and the Atlantic coast.
Interesting facts
- •The sanctuary houses a Black Madonna statue brought from Mérida in 711, making it one of the oldest Marian images in Portugal.
- •The miraculous rescue of Dom Fuas Roupinho in 1182 inspired the sanctuary's foundation and is commemorated by a horseshoe imprint in the rock near the chapel.
- •The Dutch azulejos decorating the transept were created by Willem van der Kloet in 1709 and include over 6,500 tiles depicting biblical scenes.
- •The sanctuary’s architecture blends medieval, Baroque, and Dutch influences, reflecting centuries of royal patronage and artistic evolution.
- •The annual romaria on September 8th is a major pilgrimage attracting thousands, featuring traditional bullfights and folk dances.
History
The sanctuary's origins trace back to a miraculous event in 1182 when Dom Fuas Roupinho was saved from a fatal fall, leading to the construction of the Ermida da Memoria chapel over a grotto housing the Black Madonna statue brought in 711.
In 1377, King Ferdinand I founded the current sanctuary to better serve pilgrims.
Over centuries, the church underwent expansions and renovations, including significant contributions from King Manuel I and King Philip II.
In the 17th and 18th centuries, the sanctuary was enhanced with Baroque elements, Dutch azulejo panels, and twin bell towers, culminating in its present form.
It is classified as a Property of Public Interest since 1978.
Place Guide
Ermida da Memoria Chapel12th century
The original small chapel built near the grotto where the Black Madonna statue was placed, marking the site of the miraculous rescue of Dom Fuas Roupinho.
Main Sanctuary Church14th century (founded), with major renovations until 19th century
A large church founded in the 14th century with a Latin cross plan, featuring a single nave, Baroque altar with Solomonic columns, and a wooden painted ceiling.
Dutch Azulejos in the Transept1709
Over 6,500 blue and white tiles created by Dutch ceramist Willem van der Kloet in 1709, depicting biblical episodes from Joseph, David, and Jonah.
Sacristy Corridors1714
Decorated with blue and white tiles by Portuguese masters António de Oliveira Bernardes and Manuel Borges, illustrating Marian iconography and biblical scenes.
