Pousada Ourém

Remarkable medieval military architecture, the Ourém Castle went through battles, earthquakes and storms. Having undergone continuous renovation work and being the site where a queen was kidnapped, it is an excellent starting point to explore the region’s history and geography.

This is a sanctuary that marks the apparitions of Our Lady of Fátima to the three little shepherds Lúcia, Francisco and Jacinta in 1917. One of the main religious destinations in the world, it has already been visited by three Popes and welcomes almost six million people a year. The main pilgrimages take place on 13 May and 13 October.

Consisting of a Mediterranean garden, an environmental interpretation centre, a campsite and picnic area, the Park may be used for various leisure activities. By following two marked pedestrian paths, you can observe the flora and fauna of the region.

The oldest known record of sauropod prints is only 15 minutes from the Pousada de Ourém, on various marked trails. The footprints of the largest beings to ever populate the planet date back to the Middle Jurassic and are nearly 175 million years old.

Considered one of the 7 natural wonders of Portugal, the Mira de Aire caves are 20 km from the Pousada. The huge system of underground caves, over 11 km long, was initially discovered in 1947. In addition to the caves, there is an animal farm, a water park and a bar.