Bom Jesus do Monte: A Sacred Hilltop Sanctuary in Braga, Portugal

Perched above the city of Braga in northern Portugal, the Sanctuary of Bom Jesus do Monte is one of the country’s most iconic pilgrimage sites and architectural landmarks. Recognized both as a UNESCO World Heritage Site (2019) and a Portuguese National Monument (2020), this sanctuary blends faith, art, and nature into an unforgettable experience.

We visited on rainy March 22nd, 2025 starting at the bottom of the staircase. I was in awe of the view from the terrace and the architecture of the staircase. I opted to climb the stairs to the church where I joined my husband and our tour guide.

A Pilgrimage with Centuries of History

Pilgrims have been visiting this sacred hill since the 14th century, seeking both devotion and spiritual renewal. The grand baroque staircase -that defines the site today was started in 1722.

The 583 steps are more than a climb—They are a journey of faith. Along the way, visitors encounter chapels, fountains, and statues. The chapels house detailed terra cotta sculptures depicting the Stations of the Cross, creating moments for reflection as pilgrims once ascended the steps on their knees.

From Baroque to Neoclassical Grandeur

As pilgrim crowds grew larger, the original church could no longer accommodate them. In 1784, architect Carlos Amarante began designing a new sanctuary, making Bom Jesus one of the first neoclassical churches in Portugal. The church was completed and consecrated in 1857, later elevated to the rank of Minor Basilica by Pope Francis in 2015.

The Iconic Stairways

The sanctuary’s stairways are a journey of symbolism:

The Portico Stairway – a dramatic entrance that sets the tone.
The Stairway of the Five Senses – fountains and imagery representing sight, smell, hearing, taste, and touch.
The Stairway of the Three Virtues – faith, hope, and charity, guiding pilgrims toward the basilica.

Not up for 500+ steps? You can still experience Bom Jesus in style. In 1882, a water-powered funicular was built to connect Braga with the sanctuary. Amazingly, it’s still in use today.

Beyond the Basilica: Gardens and Lake

The sanctuary is not only a place of prayer but also a haven of peace and beauty. Visitors can stroll through its landscaped gardens, rest by the lake, and enjoy panoramic views over Braga and the surrounding hills.

Visiting Bom Jesus do Monte

Whether you climb the steps in the footsteps of centuries of pilgrims, ride the charming funicular, or simply wander the gardens, Bom Jesus offers a profound mix of history, spirituality, and natural beauty.

It is more than a destination—it is a journey, both physical and spiritual, and one of Portugal’s treasures not to be missed.

References Bom Jesus Web Site, Wikipedia