Sacred Destinations
An illustrated guide to the world's sacred sites, religious architecture and historic holy places.

Bom Jesús do Monte, Braga

Stairs at Bom Jesus, Braga
Monumental Baroque stairway at Bom Jesus do Monte, Braga.
Photo Creative Commons License diegoperez74.

Basilica of Bom Jesus
Basilica of Bom Jesus do Monte. Photo Creative Commons License Pedro Lourenco Venda.

Bom Jesus at Sunset
The basilica glowing at sunset. Photo Creative Commons License Renata F. Oliveira.

Nave
Inside the basilica, looking towards the altar. Photo Creative Commons License Alcino.

Location map and aerial view of Bom Jesús do Monte. For a larger view, see our Braga Map or Google Earth download.



The Santuário Bom Jesús do Monte ("Shrine of Good Jesus of the Mountain") is a hilltop Catholic pilgrimage site just a few miles from Braga.

History

In 1722 the Archbishop of Braga commissioned the construction of a Sacred Way, so the faithful could walk the Stations of the Cross for penance and contemplation. It was completed in 1811. Although it has no associations with any visions or saints, it has been a popular place of pilgrimage ever since.

What to See

Made of dark granite covered in bright white plaster, the Sacred Way is a Baroque double staircase with several switchbacks. The numerous landings and the grounds of the sanctuary are filled with interesting gardens, grottoes, small chapels, sculptures, and allegorical fountains. The first fountain symbolizes the wounds of Christ, the next five the senses, and the final three the virtues.

The Baroque basilica at the top is 400 meters above sea level and provides visitors with a sweeping view of Braga, the beaches of Esposende and Viana do Castelo.

Festivals and Events

The most interesting time to visit Bom Jesus do Monte is during Holy Week or Semanta Santa (the week before Easter), when the Baroque stairway is climbed by penitents on their hands and knees. Another important pilgrimage takes place during Whitsun, six weeks after Easter.

Getting There

The top of the hill can be reached on foot, on a funicular, or by car (take the N103-3 road three miles SE of Braga).

Quick Facts

Names: Bom Jesús do Monte; Santuário Bom Jesús do Monte; Shrine of Good Jesus of the Mountain
City:Braga
State/Province:North Portugal
Country:Portugal
Categories: Catholic Shrines; Sacred Mountains
Faith:Christianity
Denomination:Catholic
Dedication:Good Jesus
Status:active
Date(s):1722-1811
Architecture: Baroque
Coordinates: 41.554766° N, 8.377075° W
Phone:25/367-66-36
Hours:Daily 7:30am-8pm
Cost:Free

Travel Resources for Braga

Article Sources

Article written by Holly Hayes with reference to the following sources:

  1. Santuário Bom Jesús do Monte - Frommers.com (accessed April 2009)
  2. Bom Jesus do Monte - Rough Guide to Portugal (accessed April 2009)




 

 

 

 


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