Attractions
Shrine of Our Lady of Fátima
Address: Fátima, Portugal .''The Shrine of our Lady of the Rosary of Fatima is the answer to the call of Our Lady of the Rosary, already alluded to on August 13, 1917 and expressly asked in the apparition of October 13, of that year to Lucia de Jesus, Francisco Marto and Jacinta Marto: «I want to tell you that a chapel is to be built here in my honour. I am the Lady of the Rosary» (Fist Memoir of Sister Lucia). The little chapel was constructed in 1919 in the place of the apparitions of 1917 at the Cova da Iria and, since then, the place of the Shrine was built up, in response to a significant inflow of pilgrims.
The Shrine of Fatima is a place of pilgrimage, which celebrates the memory of its founding event, the apparitions of Our Lady to the three little Shepherds. The pilgrim’s pastoral hospitality is a key element to its mission.
The Shrine of Fatima keeps the memory of the event and the message of Fatima. It has the mission of studying and diffusing this message, worked as a means of evangelization in Portugal and worldwide.
The Shrine of Fatima is, by an expressed will of the Apostolic See, a National Shrine.''
Medieval Castle of Ourém
Address: Castelo de Ourém, Ourém, Portugal .The Castle of Ourém, located in the medieval village, is an impressive medieval fortification dating back to the 12th century. Built during the Reconquista, the castle was erected to protect the region against invasions. Its architecture is characterized by robust stone walls and towers, offering stunning panoramic views of the surrounding landscape, including the city of Fátima.
The castle has a polygon-shaped layout and preserves traces of several structures, such as the cistern and the chapel, reflecting the historical and strategic importance of its location. Over the centuries, Ourém Castle has undergone several interventions and restorations, and is currently a tourist attraction that attracts visitors interested in the history and beauty of the region.
At the top of the village, with a unique view of the surrounding landscape, the Medieval Castle of Ourém is a must-see.
Tomar City
Address: Colina do Castelo 2300-000, Tomar, Portugal .Tomar, located about 30 minutes from Ourém, is a city rich in history and culture, famous for its close ties to the Knights Templar. Founded in 1160, the city is best known for the Convent of Christ, a masterpiece of Renaissance and Gothic architecture, which also served as the headquarters of the Templar Order in Portugal. Declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site, the convent houses the famous Charola, an octagonal temple that symbolizes the connection between Heaven and Earth.
Tomar’s historic center retains the charm of a medieval town, with cobblestone streets, historic buildings, and a peaceful atmosphere. The Praça da República, with the statue of D. Gualdim Pais, the city’s founder, is the heart of Tomar, where visitors can explore traditional cafés and shops.
Additionally, Tomar is home to the renowned Festa dos Tabuleiros (Festival of the Trays), one of the most important events in Portuguese culture, held every four years. During this celebration, the streets are adorned with flowers, and locals parade with decorated trays, symbolizing fertility and abundance.
Visiting Tomar is a true immersion in the history of the Templars, as well as an opportunity to discover one of the most charming cities in Portugal.
Natural Monument of Dinosaur Footprints
Address: Monumento Natural das Pegadas de Dinossáurios - Ourém / Torres Novas, Estrada de Fátima, Ourém, Portugal .Located about 10 minutes from Ourém, the Dinosaur Footprints Park in Serra de Aire is one of the most important paleontological sites in Portugal. Discovered in 1994, this park preserves the largest track of sauropod dinosaur footprints in the world, dating back more than 175 million years. The impressive footprints, marked in the region’s limestone, provide a journey back in time to the Jurassic period when gigantic herbivorous dinosaurs roamed the land that is now the Serra de Aire.
The park offers visitors the opportunity to explore an outdoor trail, where they can closely observe these footprints and learn more about the dinosaurs that left them, as well as the environment and geology of that time. Informative panels along the trail provide details about the fossilization process and the scientific importance of the site.
The Dinosaur Footprints Park is a fascinating attraction for both children and adults, offering an immersive and educational experience into the prehistoric world.
Agroal River Beach
Address: Praia Fluvial do Agroal, Formigais, Portugal .Agroal River Beach, located about 15 minutes from Ourém, is a true natural retreat, nestled in the Nabão River basin. This spot is famous for the purity and freshness of its waters, which originate from the largest karst spring in Portugal. Known for its therapeutic properties, the waters of Agroal are rich in minerals, making it an ideal place for those seeking relaxation or a perfect summer day immersed in nature.
The area is surrounded by stunning natural scenery, offering leisure areas, picnic spots, and support facilities like cafés and changing rooms. It’s the perfect location for families and groups of friends to spend a pleasant day, with the opportunity to swim in cool, crystal-clear waters.
In addition to the river beach, visitors can explore nearby hiking trails and enjoy moments of peace in close contact with nature. Agroal River Beach is one of the most charming attractions in the region and a must-visit destination for nature lovers.
