Bom Jesus do Monte

Not far from Braga, on the mountain, there is one of the main holy places of Portugal - Bom Jesus do Monte. This place has attracted pilgrims since the 14th century, when the first chapel was built.

Bus stops near the lower station of the funicular. Since we are not pilgrims but tourists, it is better to use it and get to the top. Funicular appeared in 1882 and became the first one in the Iberian Peninsula.


Visit this place even if you are not a religious person, since it is just a very beautiful.


Construction of major facilities began in 1722 and was sponsored the archbishop of Braga. The church was built in 1725.




In the 19th century the top of the mountain, around the church, was converted into a park.








The most interesting place of the complex is the ladder Via Sacra («Holy Road") which consisted of 581 steps.




Between the stairs and the bus stop is a picturesque zigzag road in the woods. On the turns stand small chapels ("Chapels of Christ's Passion"), which look very picturesque.


Getting there: By bus 2 from the train station (schedule) or taxi (7-8 euros).