Bom Jesús do Monte, Braga
The scenic Sanctuary of Bom Jesús do Monte. Photo by James Roberts.
Basilica of Bom Jesus at sunset. Photo by Alcino.
Prayer before the altar inside the basilica. Photo by Alcino.
Bom Jesús do Monte ("Good Jesus of the Mountain") is a hilltop Catholic pilgrimage site just a few miles from Braga.
History
In 1722 the Archbishop of Braga devised the Sacred Way representing the Stations of the Cross; it was finished in 1811.
What to See
The Sacred Way, a baroque granite double staircase with several switchbacks, might look daunting, but pilgrims manage to climb it on their knees. The stairway is less elaborate than the one at Remédios at Lamego but is equally impressive.
On the numerous landings are gardens, grottoes, small chapels, sculptures, and allegorical stone figures of the virtues set in fountains. The sanctuary 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 (the week before Easter), when the Baroque stairway is climbed by penitents on their hands and knees.
Quick Facts
The top of the hill can be reached on foot, on a funicular (the ride costs .60€/55¢), or by car along a tree-lined roadway.
| Location: | N103-3, 3 miles (4.75km) southeast of Braga, Portugal |
| Contact: | 25/367-66-36 |
| Hours: | Daily 7:30am-8pm |
| Cost: | Free |
Map
Below is a location map and aerial view of the Basilica of Bom Jesus do Monte. Using the buttons on the left, zoom in for a closer look or zoom out to get your bearings. Click and drag the map to move around. For a larger view, see our Braga Map or get our free Google Earth download.
