The pilgrimage site of Fatima is located in the parish of Fatima at the Cova da Iria. The Cova belonged to the families of three shepherd children who pastured the family’s sheep there. The children were Lucia dos Santos and her cousins Francisco Marto and his younger sister, Jacinta. The children were playing one day in the fields when a beautiful Lady appeared to them. And the miraculous story and history of Fatima began. I recently completed a three day pilgrimage to Fatima. I stayed at the Hotel Fatima which is next to the sanctuary at Rua Joao Paulo II. The hotel was clean and very neat. The staff went out of their way to be helpful. The suite had a large balcony which enabled me to listen to the beautiful hymns from the sanctuary while I meditated. I stared at the spire of the Basilica and thought about the story of Fatima. The location of the hotel was ideal. This religious journey affected me deeply. I participated in all of the events and ceremonies that occur at Fatima: Masses, confessions, holy hours, beautiful candlelight processions, lit candles for special intentions, and delivered prayer petitions from friends and relatives. I experienced a profoundly peaceful experience. After three days, I ended my Fatima pilgrimage. I took my peaceful and rested self up to Aveiro to continue my trip. There is an information center at the left of the bottom of the staircase as you enter the Sanctuary. Your hotel will also have maps and information.
