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 interactive view, see our Braga Map.
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
| Site Information | |
| Names: | Bom Jesús do Monte; Santuário Bom Jesús do Monte; Shrine of Good Jesus of the Mountain |
| Location: | Braga, North Portugal, Portugal |
| Faith: | Christianity |
| Denomination: | Catholic |
| Dedication: | Good Jesus |
| Categories: | Catholic Shrines; Sacred Mountains |
| Architecture: | Baroque |
| Date: | 1722-1811 |
| Status: | active |
| Visitor Information | |
| Coordinates: | 41.554766° N, 8.377075° W (view on Google Maps) |
| Lodging: | View hotels near this location |
| Phone: | 25/367-66-36 |
| Opening hours: | Daily 7:30am-8pm |
| Cost: | Free |
Travel Resources
- Braga Map - our detailed interactive map of Braga, plus hand-picked links to more
- Braga Hotels - check availability, maps, photos and reviews, and book at the guaranteed lowest price
Article Sources
- Santuário Bom Jesús do Monte - Frommers.com (accessed April 2009)
- Bom Jesus do Monte - Rough Guide to Portugal (accessed April 2009)
Last updated on April 9, 2009.
