Why it deserves a visit
Climbing a hillside above Braga, the sanctuary unfolds through stairways, chapels, fountains and gardens in a Baroque sacred landscape inscribed by UNESCO in 2019.
What to look for
Church, stairways, chapels, fountains and gardens form a single ascending composition. Distinguish the Stairway of the Five Senses from the Virtues section, and note how water, sculpture and views over Braga serve the religious programme. The 1882 funicular still works by water counterbalance. UNESCO inscribed the sanctuary landscape in 2019.
Plan your visit
Choose between walking and the historic water-powered funicular, checking whether it is operating. Allow time for chapels and gardens, and account for ascent, heat and slippery surfaces.
The UNESCO-listed sanctuary combines a monumental Baroque staircase, chapels, gardens and church above Braga. The historic water-powered funicular offers an alternative to the climb when operating; allow time for the full landscape, not only the summit.
The sanctuary’s processional ascent stages a symbolic journey through chapels, fountains and viewpoints.
