Basilica de Nossa Senhora do Rosario de Fatima
About
The Basilica of Our Lady of the Rosary in Fatima is one of the world’s most visited Catholic pilgrimage sites, nestled in the peaceful municipality of Fatima, Portugal. Built on the very spot where the 1917 apparitions of the Virgin Mary were first reported to three shepherd children, the basilica combines striking Neo-Baroque architecture with a rich tapestry of devotional art, history and pastoral care. Visitors are welcomed into a soaring marble cloister, the statue of Our Lady of Fatima, and a commanding bronze bell tower that rings throughout Mass and prayer services. Each day, the shrine offers a vibrant liturgical program: Masses at 07:30, 10:00, 12:30 and 18:00, alongside the celebrated 11:00 am Mass that is broadcast live to the world. Continuing the tradition of the Rosary, the shrine hosts daily rosary sessions in both the Chapel of the Apparitions and the Prayer Area, with live transmissions streamed on the shrine’s website, YouTube, MEO app, and radio stations such as Rádio Maria and Canção Nova. Pilgrims can also request a private intention Mass, which is offered for a modest fee and is processed by email. Beyond worship, the sanctuary is a hub of pastoral and educational activities. The Pastoral Centre of Paul VI— a 1.4‑hectare complex with a 2,092‑seat amphitheater, meeting rooms, chapel, dormitory and cafeteria—provides a space for retreats, conferences and guided tours for all ages. The surrounding museum showcases the history of the apparitions and the message of Fatima, while nearby cultural centers and archives support research and learning. Whether you are a seasoned pilgrim, a family seeking quiet reflection, or a history enthusiast fascinated by the 1917 events, Fatima offers a deeply moving experience of faith, community and cultural heritage.
Highlights
- Iconic Dome
- Marble Bell Tower
- Statue of Our Lady of Fatima
- Daily Rosary Broadcast
- Organ of the Chapel
- Daily Mass Schedule
- Online Transmissions
- Pastoral Centre of Paul VI
Must-See Areas
Good to Know
Good for
Best time to visit
Spring (March–May) and early Autumn (September–October) offer cooler temperatures and less crowding, while the May 13 and October 13 pilgrimages are the peak dates for spiritual significance.
At a glance
- Typical visit: about 1 hour 30 minutes