Fátima Sanctuary and the Little Shepherds Houses Private Tour

Known as The Altar of the World, the Sanctuary of Fátima stands as one of the most significant spiritual destinations in modern religious history. Nestled in Cova da Iria, once an obscure village even to the Portuguese, it gained global recognition in 1917 when three shepherd children Jacinta, Lúcia, and Francisco witnessed the apparitions of Our Lady of the Rosary. This sacred event, later officially recognized by the Bishop of Leiria in 1930, turned Fátima into a profound symbol of faith. Every year, from May 13 to October 13, thousands of pilgrims walk the Pilgrimage Route of Fátima, seeking spiritual solace, fulfillment of vows, and connection to the divine. The serenity of the Sanctuary, its solemn Prayer Grounds, and the stories of the Little Shepherds create an atmosphere of deep reflection and peace, inviting visitors from all corners of the world.

But this journey of faith is also an immersion into the local culture and gastronomy. After moments of prayer and reflection, the tour offers a taste of the region’s most cherished culinary traditions. Guests enjoy a hearty meal at one of Fátima’s renowned restaurants, featuring dishes like green soup, olive cabbage, cod with chícharos, lamb stew, and rice morcelas. Sweet tooths will be delighted by regional desserts such as farófias, almond pudding, and chocolate mousse. The tour continues through the symbolic sites that shaped the story of the apparitions: from the Way of the Cross to Aljustrel, the humble birthplace of the three shepherds. Along this path, visitors experience places like the Loca do Anjo, Valinhos, and the Hungarian Calvary each carrying its own spiritual and historical significance. More than a simple visit, this is a journey of the soul, enriched by tradition, memory, and a lasting sense of peace.