The Sanctuary of Nossa Senhora dos Remédios is an important Marian devotion site located in the city of Lamego, in the North of Portugal.
It was built on the summit of Mount São Estêvão and dominates the landscape of Lamego, as you can see this magnificent monument from wherever you look.
Moreover, it has been classified as a Property of Public Interest since 1984.
The feast day of Nossa Senhora dos Remédios is on September 8th, so mark it on your agenda for your next trip.
Keep reading, as here you have everything you need to plan your trip!
Visiting the Sanctuary of Nossa Senhora dos Remédios
The area we call Nossa Senhora dos Remédios consists of the Sanctuary, staircase, and park with gardens, picnic areas, and plenty of parking spaces.
So, next, we’ll tell you about each of these parts in detail.
The Sanctuary
It is a Catholic church of the Diocese of Lamego and one of the most important Marian worship centers in Portugal.
On the exterior, the two bell towers stand out, one on each side of the church, as well as the details of the Baroque and Rococo styles.
On the other hand, when we enter the interior of the church, our eyes are drawn to the main altar decorated in gilded woodcarving.
The centerpiece of this altar is a small wooden statue representing Nossa Senhora dos Remédios.
The monumental staircase
The monumental staircase connects the city of Lamego to the church atop Mount São Estêvão.
In total, there are 686 steps to climb, which can be a bit challenging, especially if you’re going uphill.
However, these steps are divided into nine sections, with plenty to see along the way, such as fountains, chapels, and statues, which makes the journey somewhat easier. There are also beautiful tiles that should be admired leisurely.
Of particular note is the “Pátio dos Reis,” where eighteen statues of the Kings of Israel are placed.
Fun fact: Did you know that one of the tile panels depicts a foot with 6 toes? Well, someone made a mistake…
The park of Nossa Senhora dos Remédios
The park is a wooded area where you can access the sanctuary by car.
This is because the only access is not through the staircase, as cars can reach the church by road. In this park, you will find picnic tables, parking spots, as well as trails if you prefer to walk.
A special chestnut tree
Near the sanctuary is a tree believed to be, get this, seven hundred years old! While the days when the tree had green leaves are long gone, the fact that it has survived seven centuries makes it a notable attraction in the region.
The History of the Sanctuary of Nossa Senhora dos Remédios
The history of this sanctuary dates back to the medieval period (1361), when a small chapel was built to Saint Stephen, after all, this chapel gave its name to the Mount.
But already in the 16th century, Bishop Dom Manuel de Noronha ordered the reconstruction of the chapel that had been in ruins and placed a statue of Nossa Senhora dos Remédios that he had brought from Rome.
The legends of miracles of the Lady of Lamego kept growing, which ultimately contributed to the popularity of the sanctuary.
Accommodation in Lamego
It’s not just the Sanctuary of Our Lady of Remedies that you can visit in Lamego.
In fact, the city boasts several points of interest, such as Lamego Castle, Lamego Cathedral, and the Biological Park of Serra das Meadas.
I usually stay in the outskirts of Lamego, specifically at Quinta da Casa Amarela (4 stars), and I highly recommend it. It has a pool, which is advantageous on hot summer days.
Alternatively, if you prefer staying in the city center with easy access to the Sanctuary of Nossa Senhora dos Remédios, I recommend Hotel Solar dos Pachecos (3 stars).
Moreover, for travelers with electric cars, both Casa da Real Companhia (4 stars) and Lamego Hotel & Life (4 stars) are good choices, as they offer charging stations for electric vehicles.
And for travelers who appreciate luxury hotels, there’s good news as this area of the Douro Valley boasts some truly stunning options.
- Six Senses Douro Valley (5 stars): a luxury hotel set in a 19th-century mansion.
- The Wine House Hotel – Quinta da Pacheca (5 stars): offers the unique experience of sleeping inside wine barrels amidst a vineyard.
- Douro Scala (5 stars): a luxury hotel in Mesão Frio with more accessible prices.
If none of these suggestions appeal to you, take a look at the map below with all accommodations in the area.
Everything You Need to Know About the Sanctuary of Nossa Senhora dos Remédios
How many steps does the staircase in Lamego have?
The staircase in Lamego has 686 steps.
When is the celebration of Nossa Senhora dos Remédios?
The feast of Our Lady of Remedies in Lamego does not yet have a date for 2024, but last year it took place from August 24th to September 9th.
I remind you that the main day of the festivities in Lamego is September 8th, the day of Our Lady of Remedies, which coincides with the day of the great pilgrimage.
Are there shops at the Sanctuary?
Next to the Sanctuary of Our Lady of Remedies, you will find souvenir shops as well as street vendors selling sweets, particularly the traditional Lamego candies (rebuçados de Lamego).
Is there parking near the Sanctuary?
On the way up to Nossa Senhora dos Remédios, you will find several free parking lots where you can safely leave your car.
Are there picnic areas at the Sanctuary?
Yes, there are picnic areas at Nossa Senhora dos Remédios, located in different places. Typically, they are not far from the parking areas.
Map and to get to Sanctuary of Nossa Senhora dos Remédios
From Porto
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