Description

and the Surrounding Area – Fatima, Santarem, Coimbra, Batalha, Alcobaca, Tomar, Nazare, Obidos, Lisbon, Sintra, Estoril, Cascais

In 1917, in Fatima [Fátima] Portugal, three shepherd children received apparitions of the Virgin Mary, the Child Jesus, and Saint Joseph. Since then, Fátima has been the destination of many millions of pilgrim visitors. The apparitions occurred at a time of great turmoil in the history of mankind. The Great War was in its third year, and Russia was in the throes of a revolution that would lead to Communism taking hold. The so-called  ‘’Third Secret’’ of Fátima foretold the assassination attempt on the Pope, Saint John Paul II in 1981. Essential to the message, therefore, are the errors of mankind that create death and destruction. These events may have passed, but the message of Fátima is eternal: prayer and penance form the path to salvation.

This book first tells the Fátima story and provides insights into the lives of the seers, Lúcia, Francisco and Jacinta. It then gives the locations of the places of worship and interest in the Sanctuary and nearby villages. There is information on the Programmes, Sanctuary information, and practical essentials when visiting Portugal. There is finally a small book of Devotions featuring the Rosary, the Mass, and prayers and songs associated with Fátima.

Several trips to the surrounding area are suggested. Abbeys, castles, The Eucharistic Miracle at Santarém, and the shrine in the fishing town of Nazaré. The Convent of Carmel in the historic city of Coimbra, home to Sister Lúcia for many years, is visited. Lisbon – a full guide with city plan – the Estoril coast and the palaces of Sintra and Mafra are all included. In Lisbon and Coimbra there are important sites associated with St Anthony of Padua, and these are described along with a brief Life of the Saint.

We have illustrated this book in full colour with more than a hundred photographs, and six maps and plans. This essential tool will enable you to make the most of what will be a deeply spiritual, personal experience.

Book details

144 pages. A5. Paperback.

ISBN 978-0-9569768-9-5 Trade Paperback

ISBN 978-0-9955615-0-2 ePub  from our partner

About the author

Andrew Houseley founded Pilgrim Books with his father in
1996. As an author, this is his first book in print. He has also
followed careers in retail wines and spirits and in human
resources management, and is a graduate of Lancaster
University where he read History and Politics. He has homes in
England and Bulgaria. Andrew’s knowledge of Portugal has
been formed from many visits spanning more than 30 years, together with University study. He is currently researching the Portuguese Way of Saint James and connecting routes to and from Fátima.