Why pilgrims climb 583 steps to reach this Portuguese Baroque masterpiece

Countries & Cities · Published 29 September 2026 Swipe more like this →

In short: Perched on a hill in Braga, the Sanctuary of Bom Jesus do Monte is more than a shrine; it is a physical journey from the material world to the spiritual. Its iconic zigzag stairways force a slow, meditative ascent, guiding visitors through a carefully choreographed sequence of fountains and theological lessons.

The site’s religious significance dates back to at least 1373, when a chapel dedicated to the Holy Cross first appeared on the hill. However, the current monumental structure began taking shape in 1722 under Archbishop Rodrigo de Moura Telles. He commissioned the initial stairway, which features chapels housing terra cotta sculptures of the Passion of Christ, and a second zigzag section dedicated to the five human senses. Each sense—sight, smell, hearing, touch, and taste—is represented by a distinct fountain, serving as a symbolic purification for the faithful as they ascend.

In 1781, Archbishop Gaspar de Bragança expanded the complex, adding a third stairway segment focused on the theological virtues of faith, hope, and charity. This final climb leads to a Neoclassic church designed by Carlos Amarante, which replaced an earlier structure. Construction of this church spanned from 1784 to 1834, resulting in one of the first Neoclassic buildings in Portugal. The entire ensemble, which includes 583 steps and rises 116 meters, was recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2019.

The sanctuary’s influence spread far beyond Portugal, inspiring similar sites in Brazil and across the Iberian Peninsula. To manage the influx of visitors, the world’s first water-balance funicular in the region was installed in 1882, still operating today to connect the city of Braga to the hilltop. In 2015, Pope Francis elevated the church to the status of a Minor Basilica, cementing its role as a premier destination for pilgrims who, by tradition, have long been encouraged to complete the arduous climb on their knees.

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