Destination Weddings in Fátima

Fátima is located north of Lisbon and is respectfully named after an Arab girl believed to have been captured by a Christian and brought back to live in the area. The town is best known for an event that is believed to have taken place in 1917. Three peasant children alleged that the Virgin Mary appeared above an oak tree and spoke to them in the valley of Cova da Iria, 88 miles north of Lisbon. The spot has now become one of the most well known shrines in the world, and between May and October, on the 13th day of every month, Pilgrimage Day is celebrated. This is when hundreds of believers gather in a square before the Chapel of the Apparitions and worship God. There is an Ethnological Museum devoted to the event, nearby.

Ourém, a medieval town located northeast of Fátima, has a 12th century castle that draws numerous visitors annually. East of Fátima is the historic town of Tomar, founded in 1159 by the first Grand Master of the Order of the Knights Templar in Portugal, Gualdim Pais. Northeast of Fátima is a fascinating building established to commemorate the battle of Aljubarrota, which took place in 1385. The town of Alcobaça is located to the northwest, and has been famous since the 12th Century, when it became home to Portugal’s largest Abbey. Leiria is a town to the north, where a 14th Century castle is located. This castle was where King Dom Dinis held the first "Cortes," the equivalent of what we now know as democracy.

Lovers of history and faith should consider Fátima as the ideal wedding destination. Its culture and symbolism will surely be reflected within the distinctive marriage ceremony.