Free Photos of Fatima

Fatima is a small city in central Portugal known for the world-famous Shrine of Our Lady of Fatima. The city draws millions of pilgrims and tourists every year and is one of the most important Christian pilgrimage sites in the world. The shrine is dedicated to the Virgin Mary and commemorates the apparitions of the Virgin Mary to three shepherd children in May 1917. The shrine includes the Basilica of Our Lady of the Rosary, the Chapel of Apparitions, and the monument of the Sacred Heart of Jesus. The chapel is the most important site in the shrine, it is where the Virgin Mary appeared to the children, and her statue marks the spot. The basilica features beautiful stained glass windows depicting the story of the apparitions and the life of Jesus. It is the fourth-largest Catholic church in the world by capacity, and its bell tower stands 65 meters high. The city of Fatima is today a modern and well-organized pilgrimage hub, and it offers a range of services and facilities such as restaurants, hotels, and souvenir shops. Visitors can also explore the rural countryside of the region and the nearby medieval town of Obidos, which is a charming destination with cobbled streets, traditional houses, and beautiful views. Another interesting place to visit is Batalha, which is famous for its Gothic monastery and was designated a UNESCO World Heritage site in 1983. Fatima has an interesting history, the city used to be known as Cova da Iria and was a small farming village. The apparitions of the Virgin Mary changed everything, and the place became a spiritual center attracting millions of pilgrims every year. The miracle of the sun that occurred on October 13, 1917, also put Fatima on the map; it was an extraordinary event witnessed by thousands of people and is considered one of the most spectacular supernatural events of the 20th century. Today, the shrine of Fatima is a symbol of hope, peace, and unity, and it continues to be an important destination for pilgrims and people of all faiths seeking spiritual nourishment.