583 steps down and 583 steps up. That was how many steps we had to take get the full experience of the pilgrimage site with a Monumental Stairway.

Yet, despite the accomplishment, we can still be considered as having cheated from the experience. Climbing the stairs, by tradition, was encouraged to be done on our knees. That was something that we were not prepared to do.

A chapel has been known to exist on Mount Espinho (Monte do Espinho) since the 14th century. It was not until the 16th century that construction of the present sanctuary started. More structures were gradually added until its completion in the 18th century.

There are three sections: 1) the portico stairway, 2) the staircase of the five senses, and 3) the staircase of the three virtues (faith, hope, and charity). We covered all the three sections of the stairway.

The top of the stairs culminated at the NeoClassical church that overlooks the City of Braga.

Random photographs of our travels. Memories found and captured in a photograph.

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Have a wonderful day!