25 Beautiful Religious Towns Around the World To Add To Your Bucket List

16. Fatima, Portugal: A Sanctuary of Marian Devotion

Nestled in central Portugal, Fatima is one of the most significant Marian pilgrimage sites in the world. Its "secret" lies in the profound faith that draws millions of pilgrims annually, yet it remains less of a mainstream tourist destination compared to Lisbon or Porto. The Sanctuary of Fátima commemorates the apparitions of the Virgin Mary to three shepherd children in 1917. Visitors can participate in candlelit processions, attend Mass, and experience a palpable sense of devotion, making it a powerful testament to modern religious belief and a deeply moving spiritual experience.