Enchanting Nazaré

Enchanting Nazaré is one of the hidden gems of Portugal. I never heard of this city until we visited it during our tour of Portugal. Nazaré is one of the most popular seaside resort in Portugal, known for it's surfing. For me though, it was the majestic views of the Atlantic Ocean and the wide shoreline facing against the white buildings of the town that captivated me. Before we began our tour, we first had lunch at Restaurante Arimar, right on the cliff with spectacular views of the ocean and seaside town. We had the best of the Portuguese seafood there including their sardines. After lunch, we visited the main square where the Sanctuary of Our Lady of Nazaré is the main attraction. There is a legend on the Lady of Nazaré which really is the main story of this town. Inside the magnificent church it was decorated with gold leaf and the traditional blue and white Portuguese tiles on the walls. Afterwards, we visited the old grotto by the cliff where the ancient wooden image of the Virgin Mary laid hidden since 714. Our overall visit at Nazaré was enchanting and enriching with its breathtaking views, delicious seafood and visiting the Our Lady of Nazare, whom we ask for her intercession for miracles in our lives.

The legend of Our Lady of Nazaré told the story of the ancient wooden image of our Lady, believed to be carved in wood by St Joseph himself of the Virgin Mary breastfeeding baby Jesus. This image was hidden in the grotto for 469 years since 714, after it was found by D Fuas Roupinho in 1182. During a hunting trip, chasing after a deer, he almost fell on the cliff but invocating the name of the Virgin Mary, he was saved from the fall and escaped death. As thanksgiving in saving his life, he ordered to build the grotto. Finally, in 1377, by order of King Fernando of Portugal, the Virgin Mary was transferred to the Our Lady of Nazaré’s Sanctuary.