Fatima

Fatima is best known for the series of apparitions that were seen by three young children in 1916 and 1917.

Just one hour by road from Figueira, the small town is one of the most visited Marian shrines in the world.

The large torch-lit processions in honour of the Virgin Mary which are organised in the evenings, are particularly impressive.

The pilgrims gather in the Cova, on a huge esplanade in which is built a little chapel where the Virgin is believed to have appeared to the children.

Every year pilgrims fill the country road that leads to the shrine with crowds that approach one million on May 13th and October 13th, the significant dates of Fatima apparitions.