Santuário de Santa Luzia, Viana do Castelo, Portugal

Building work of Santuário de Santa Luzia started in 1904, and lasted until 1959. It is the work of architect Miguel Ventura Terra, who was succeeded by Miguel Nogueira, after the death of his master in 1919.

Architecturally, it is of Romanesque-Byzantine inspiration, fitting into the revivalist architecture that marked the turn of the century. Its imposing rose windows are the largest in the Iberian Peninsula and the second largest in Europe.

You can reach the top of the Monte de Santa Luzia by funicular (elevator), by car or by climbing the steps. This place dominates an important part of the Lima river valley and a large stretch of the seashore to the north and south of the estuary, as well as the green mountain range. This panorama has been rated by the National Geographic Magazine as the third most beautiful in the World.

References:

Visit Portugal

Religious sites in Portugal

User Reviews

Mrs H (2 years ago)
Great place to conclude the Letap de Tour cycling event. From this vantage point one has a wonderful view of the countryside . Pro tip: there's an elevator to get to the viewpoint at the top of the sanctuary for those who can't manage the 180+ narrow and steep stairs to see why National Geographic calls this one of the most beautiful views in the world

Gordon Naccarato (2 years ago)
Breathtaking. A must visit. One of the more beautiful overlooks I have seen. Located on a hilltop in the northern city of Viana do Castelo, overlooking the Lima river valley and the Atlantic coast. You can reach the sanctuary by car, by funicular (fun for the kids) or by climbing the steps from the city if you want a workout.

João Lourenço (2 years ago)
A very pleasant church to visit, one of the most attractive spots in the city of Viana do Castelo. The church is beautiful and it is possible to climb (paying) to the top. There is a cable car that takes people near the church, some souvenir shops, a picnic park, an amphitheater and an excellent viewpoint. Along with the Gil Eanes Hospital Ship and the costume museum, it is the most important place to visit in the city.

June Welcome (2 years ago)
We were almost put off visiting this site as the cable car was closed. The climb was worth it though...beautiful views & even a wedding taking place. The cafe up there was.also very good and much needed refueling after that climb...

Frances Neligan (2 years ago)
An amazing view of the town and a lovely Basilica. The drive up is via a winding road and at the top there is parking. If you don’t have a car there is a Funicular from the town to the basilica. Reasonable priced. We parked at the top of the hill and went down to walk around the town - it worked out very well.

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Santuário de Santa Luzia

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