Bom Jesús do Monte, Braga
Monumental Baroque stairway at Bom Jesus do Monte, Braga.
Photo
diegoperez74.
Basilica of Bom Jesus do Monte. Photo
Pedro Lourenco Venda.
The basilica glowing at sunset. Photo
Renata F. Oliveira.
Inside the basilica, looking towards the altar. Photo
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
- Braga Map - our own interactive map, plus links to more maps
- Braga Hotels - check availability, maps, photos and reviews, then book at the guaranteed lowest price
- Braga Hostels - reserve budget lodgings with no booking fees
- Braga Hotel Reviews - unbiased ratings from fellow travelers
- Braga Travel Forum - tips, answers and advice on Braga tourism
Article Sources
Article written by Holly Hayes with reference to the following sources:
- Santuário Bom Jesús do Monte - Frommers.com (accessed April 2009)
- Bom Jesus do Monte - Rough Guide to Portugal (accessed April 2009)
