On the way from the Douro valley to Lisbon we stopped at this basilica. It is special also as today is Good Friday.
The Basilica of Our Lady of the Rosary of Fatima is an important Catholic pilgrimage site located in Fatima, Portugal. It is dedicated to the Virgin Mary, who, according to Catholic faith, appeared to three children in Fatima in 1917. The basilica is known for its impressive architecture and the significant role it plays in Marian devotion.
Leaving the Douro. Azulejo tile are everywhere.The basilica from the north entrance.Inside the basilica.
Many of these little altars had scenes of the live of Jesus.
The front of the basilica from the north entrance.
From the north entrance you can walk on your knees towards an altar. Walking on one’s knees as an act of devotion is a common practice in many religious traditions, including Christianity. In the context of the Basilica of Our Lady of the Rosary of Fatima, people may walk on their knees as a form of penance or supplication, expressing humility and seeking spiritual grace. It is often done as a physical demonstration of devotion and a way to participate in the pilgrimage experience with sincerity and reverence. Many believers view such acts as a way to connect more deeply with their faith and to express their devotion to God and the Virgin Mary.
They walk on their knees towards the Chapel of the apparitions.
They end the walking on their knees here.
We lit candles to make wishes to Mary for the future.
A very reverent and sacred place here in Portugal. Today was Good Friday as well.
Afterwards we made it to Lisbon and our last place to stay. I enjoy Porto more, but looking forward to a tour in Lisbon on the last day.
We started the day a little late due to some heavy rains. As it was the only full day in Lisbon I had we decided that after the aquarium we would get an all day pass to the tram and funiculars.
We found the metro but had some difficulty getting 3 all day passes from the machine. Most likely our error as it seemed to be a common problem when we went to the counter.
Praça Dom Pedro IV
Miradouro de São Pedro de Alcântara
We wanted to ride tram 28 but the wait would be two hours. Instead we boarded a city bus to meet another friend for a late lunch. Afterwards we took the closest funicular up to a viewpoint of the city.
Other pictures from some Lisbon were taken from tram 24 which had a stop 0.7 km from the VRBO we were staying at.
Church of Saint DominicChurch of Saint Dominic Avenida PalaceChurch of Saint RochChurch of our lady of the incarnation Miradouro de Santa Luzia
An early flight in the morning meant an early night. I wish I had more time in Portugal but it is back on my list of retirement options.
The Lisbon Oceanarium, is one of the largest indoor aquariums in Europe. It showcases a wide variety of marine life from different ecosystems around the world, including sharks, rays, and colorful tropical fish. What is really cool about the building is that you walk across a ganar and the aquarium is actually in the water and not on land.
Before the aquarium you pass by the science center.Sea otter before swimming back under again.FlatfishCuttlefish. I do feel bad eating his relative the night before.Cuttlefish as an entree the night before.Sea dragonsA type of eelMoray eel
We had a great night at the house we were staying in. So beautiful here and listening to the birds in the morning…
If you come to the Douro valley, staying at Douroparadise owned by Pedro Ribeiro and using Daniel as a tour guide you cannot go wrong. Daniel owns Terra d’alma a personal tour company and he is also a budding Sommelier.
Quinta de Pacheco
We started off at a wine tasting at Quinta de Pacheco. It is a commercial operation which seemed a bit more impersonal. Not one of my favorite places so far but the landscape was beautiful.
You can actually stay in these wine barrel houses.
Sandeman is a well-known producer of wines in the world. It is know for its port wines, particularly its iconic Don (or Don Quixote) logo, which is recognized worldwide. The company was founded in 1790 and has a long history of producing high-quality port wines, including Tawny, Ruby, Vintage, and Late Bottled Vintage ports, among others. Sandeman also offers guided tours of its cellars in Porto, Portugal, providing visitors with an insight into the port wine-making process and the company’s rich heritage.
We also stopped at another church but as we approached the front door we realized that a funeral was taking place and did not go inside.
Tile work inside the cathedral can be seen all around the perimeter. The azulejo tile here in Portugal is beautiful.
Azulejo tiles are a type of ceramic tile that is commonly found in Portugal and Spain, particularly in decorative art and architecture. These tiles are known for their intricate designs and vibrant colors, often featuring geometric patterns, floral motifs, or historical scenes. Azulejos were introduced to Portugal by the Moors in the 15th century and have since become an integral part of Portuguese culture and architecture. They are commonly used to decorate walls, floors, and even ceilings in buildings such as churches, palaces, and public squares. The word “azulejo” itself comes from the Arabic word “al-zuleycha,” which means “polished stone.” Today, azulejo tiles are celebrated for their beauty and craftsmanship and are often considered a symbol of Portuguese and Spanish cultural identity.
The Santuario Nossa Senhora dos Remedios is perched on a hill above the town of Lamego. To reach the Church you climb up sets of zigzag stairs from the wide avenue at the edge of the town. The view is worth the climb. Due to the rain we were dropped off at the top and viewed the inside of the church first. I then started at the top of the stairs and went down instead.
At every level in the stairs there was tile work that is simply beautiful.
Bread made with salted cod. They also have ones with ham and other meats.
Gueda winery is a small winery that goes back 30 generations. Currently a brother and sister run the winery and their passion or evident in how they manage and explain their process. A great end to the day. We had started the day with a commercial winery and ended the day with a small family winery.
The winery cat was so friendly. You know how much I love holding and petting animals.
One more night here in the Douro valley and then we are off to Lisbon for the last two nights.
The rain finally stopped for a little bit to snap good pictures of where we are staying. It is really beautiful here.
The Douro Valley, located in northern Portugal, is renowned for its stunning landscapes, terraced vineyards, and rich history of winemaking, particularly for Port wine. The villages are amazing with many historic quintas (wine estates). The Douro River winds through the valley and even in the rain is beautiful.
Quinta de Popa
The first winery for the day was a short drive away.
After the winery we stopped at a little church that had the most beautiful view of the valley.
São Leonardo de Galafura is a viewpoint located in the Douro region of Portugal. It offers breathtaking views of the Douro River and the terraced vineyards typical of the area. This spot is renowned for its panoramic vistas, especially at sunset, and is frequently referenced in Portuguese literature, notably by Miguel Torga, a prominent Portuguese writer.
We stopped for a bite to eat and then on to the last winery at Quinta de Tato. Here I tried only port wines. They are amazing here.
Despite the threat of rain, which it definitely did, it was a beautiful day in the countryside with friends and wine.
We headed to the Douro valley. The first stop was in a town called Amarante.
Amarante is a charming town in northern Portugal, known for its rich history, picturesque setting, and cultural heritage. It is on the banks of the Tâmega River and very picturesque. One of most iconic landmarks is the São Gonçalo Church, dedicated to the town’s patron saint, which overlooks the river and features a stunning baroque facade.
Outside the churchThe bridge over the river.
The town is also known for its pastries.
Afterwards we went wine tasting at Aveleda, the local winery. Such long family history and beautiful gardens. The wines were fantastic.
We then headed to the Douro valley where we would be staying and also bought some food for the evening.
São Bento Railway Station (Estação de São Bento), is gorgeous with it’s azulejo tilework. It shows scenes from Portuguese history, culture, and transportation. It is still used as a transportation hub since the early 20th century.
Porto is so beautiful! After arriving, we took a boat tour along the Douro River. The history of the port dates back centuries. Its location made it a hub for trade and commerce. It’s history as a port dates back to the 15th and 16th centuries, when Portuguese explorers created trade routes. Of course wine, olive oil, and textiles were traded with other European ports.
Walking around porto was amazing as well. Many shops and great places to eat. Popular here is codfish. Many of the buildings have very pretty and ornate tiles on the front.
At Calem we took a tour of the winery that makes port, Porto’s and mainly the Douro valley’s specialty.
We did ride the hop on hop off bus and also rode the teleferico along one side of the river. But first a fish soup with puff pastry on the top. Octopus is also a favorite here and very well prepared.
Octopus
From the teleferico.
This bunny was created on the corner of a building from scrap parts. Happy Easter!
I went with a friend to a museum with summer of the oldest artifacts in Ecuador.
It is dedicated to pre-Columbian art and artifacts and has a diverse collection of objects from various indigenous cultures from this region before the arrival of the Spanish. Its displays showcase authentic artifacts that depict the beliefs, rituals, and daily life of the ancient peoples. the exhibits were of pottery, sculptures, jewelry, and others.
These symbols seem to assist in other cultures on other continents as well This vessel was used for making morocho, a corn based drink.These were carried with people as good luck.
The building itself is beautiful and the original structure. New walls and structures were added as necessary to display the objects. The courtyards were equally amazing.
A great day trip to Centro histórico in Quito finally led me to the Basilica. Every Sunday I ride the ciclo paseo and I see the basilica but had yet to step foot inside.
The Basilica del Voto Nacional is one of the largest neo-Gothic basilicas found in the Americas. Its architecture is like medieval European cathedrals.
The construction of the basilica began in the late 19th century and took over 100 years.
There are over 20 gargoyles as decoration on the exterior of the basilica. These depict Ecuadorian animals such as armadillos, iguanas, and Galapagos tortoises.
The basilica has four main towers that represent a different aspect of Christian faith: hope, charity, faith, and Jesus Christ.
The towers have stunning panoramic views of the historic center. Narrow and steep stairs were a little challenging but worth it for the view. Views from the towers:
Even though it is styled after European cathedrals, the basilica has many indigenous elements found in the stonework including animals and symbols.
Inside the basilica features are impressive stained glass windows. The altars are ornate as well as the vaulted ceilings.
Supposedly, the facade remains unfinished. I did not really notice this. It symbolizes that perfection belongs only to God.
Beneath the basilica, there are crypts for the remains of prominent figures. Chapels to saints are found inside.
Afterwards we walked from the basilica to San Francisco square. Here we had something to eat and drink while enjoying the view in the other direction.
As it is right before holy week (Easter also known as Semana Santa), one of the ritual dishes is Fenesca. It is a dish that takes some time to prepare but it’s really delicious.
