Latest news and stories about religious tourism in Portugal for expats and residents.
Celebrations gathered 50,000 pilgrims over the two days. The Apostolic Nuncio to Portugal says the site “is a true spiritual home”.
Portugal participates in the international congress 'Tierra de Fe Viva 2026' held in El Salvador, focusing on religious tourism.
Yasmim Santos travelled from São Paulo with her mother to attend the May 13th celebrations at the Sanctuary of Fátima for the first time. According to the Sanctuary, Brazilian groups rank 4th among foreign pilgrims, behind Poland, Italy, and France. The rector of the Sanctuary, Father Carlos Cabecinhas, noted that devotion to Our Lady of Fátima continues to grow in Brazil, strengthening the bond between the two countries.
A report or promotional piece regarding a trip to the Fátima sanctuary in association with the CMTV television channel.
In an interview ahead of the May 13th pilgrimage, the Bishop of Leiria-Fátima, José Ornelas, describes the Sanctuary as a 'mother's house' that welcomes those burdened by life's anxieties, such as war, loneliness, and illness. He discusses the international growth of Fátima, the potential for a future visit by Pope Francis, and the Sanctuary's role in providing social support and a space for peace, while also addressing the Church's ongoing commitment to protecting the vulnerable and responding to the issue of sexual abuse.
Thousands of pilgrims gather at the Sanctuary of Fátima for early morning services.
Between January 1 and May 11, the Sanctuary of Fátima received 1,127,762 pilgrims, a slight increase of just over 1% compared to the same period last year. The sanctuary is currently undergoing repairs following damage caused by storm Kristin earlier this year, which affected buildings and the natural heritage of the site. During a press conference, Rector Father Carlos Cabecinhas and Bishop José Ornelas discussed the ongoing recovery efforts and confirmed that a formal invitation has been extended to Pope Leo XIV for a potential future visit, noting that the sanctuary remains committed to its message of peace and care for the vulnerable amidst global conflicts.
Beyond Cova da Iria, we have mapped out the places where the mother of Jesus is said to have appeared. A route where faith and prayer intersect with epic landscapes, artisanal liqueurs, and well-kept secrets.
An analysis of the growing importance and strategic role of religious tourism within the Portuguese economy.
The region is seeing an increase in bookings before and after May 13th, including from Asian tourists.
