The Sanctuary of Our Lady of Remedies And The Galafura Viewpoint

While in Portugal, we made a stop at Santuário de Nossa Senhora dos Remédios (The Sanctuary of Our Lady of Remedies), located atop the hill of Santo Estêvão (Mount St. Stephen) in Lamego. The history of this location extends back to the 14th century, when a chapel to Santo Estêvão was constructed in 1361. However, it was destroyed around 1568 and a new chapel was then built, which included an image of the Virgin and Child. 

Over time, worship of Santo Estêvão waned, being replaced by devotion to the Holy Virgin, Our Lady of Remedies. Construction on a new sanctuary was then begun in 1750, and it took over 100 years to complete, finally finishing in 1905. 

An impressive Baroque staircase, with 686 steps and a number of different levels, leads up the hill to the sanctuary. These levels are decorated with various statues, fountains, obelisks and more. One level is known as the "Courtyard of the Kings," and it contains images of eighteen kings of Israel that are related to the Holy Virgin. 

The Sanctuary is especially busy on September 8, the day of the Nativity of the Virgin.  

Another beautiful church in Portugal!

A photo of the roof. 

Various azulejos within the sanctuary, all dedicated to the Holy Virgin.

The organ, located on a second level. 

After leaving the Sanctuary, our driver, Joaquim, took us on a drive, headed to the São Leonardo de Galafura viewpoint, often considered one of the most impressive views of the Douro. The viewpoint is at a summit which is about 640 meters high. Above, is a stone with a plaque which excerpts a work from the famous Portuguese writer, Miguel Torga, who found much inspiration from this viewpoint. Unfortunately, it was cloudy, with a rainy drizzle, so the view wasn't as beautiful as it would have been on a sunny day. However, despite the weather, it was still impressive, and if you are in the Douro region, you should make a stop here.