Brazil is a deeply spiritual country. And it doesn't matter what religion you follow - there is something sacred about visiting a place that carries faith, history and silence. The most visited sanctuaries in Brazil are not just tourist destinations: they are meeting points between heaven and earth, where millions of people go to give thanks, to pray, to renew promises or simply to feel peace.

Each of these places carries a unique energy that goes beyond architecture and straight into the heart. In this post, you'll get to know the most visited sanctuaries in Brazil and what they represent for those who believe.

National Shrine of Our Lady of Aparecida (SP)

Located in Aparecida, in the interior of São Paulo, the National Sanctuary of Aparecida is the Brazil's largest religious pilgrimage center - and one of the largest in the world.

It receives around 12 million visitors a yearespecially in October, the month of Brazil's patron saint.

More than a tourist attraction, the sanctuary represents:

  • A protection of Mother Aparecida for the most humble
  • A faith of the brazilian peopleThe event was marked by miracles and gratitude
  • A place of reconciliation, spiritual renewal and a promise fulfilled

The original image of the saint, found by fishermen in the Paraíba do Sul River, is the center of devotion and a symbol of hope for those who feel lost.

Shrine of the Divine Eternal Father (GO)

Located in Trindade, Goiás, the Sanctuary of the Divine Eternal Father welcomes more than 4 million faithful a year.

The city, known as the "capital of faith in Goiás", is intensely involved in the Pilgrimage of the Divine Eternal Father, one of the biggest religious events in Latin America.

The shrine represents:

  • A God's tenderness as a Fatheraccessible and merciful
  • A path of popular and simple faithwhere each lit candle tells a story
  • Welcoming the humble, who walk for days to do their devotion

For many pilgrims, the journey there is a real journey of inner transformation.

Shrine of Our Lady of Fátima (RS)

In Ibiraçu, Rio Grande do Sul, the Shrine of Our Lady of Fatima is inspired by the Marian devotion that was born in Portugal and has become a place of strong spiritual presence among the people of Rio Grande do Sul.

He represents:

  • The search for inner and world peace
  • Mary's presence as intercessor in difficult times
  • The silence needed to listen to faith

Many devotees report feelings of deep peace when they pray here. The space is also known for offering moments of reflection, with Masses, adoration and spiritual trails.

Sanctuary of St. Francis of the Wounds (Canindé - CE)

The Sanctuary of Canindé, in Ceará, is the the largest Franciscan shrine in the world, after Assisi in Italy. It receives around 2.5 million visitors a year.

It is dedicated to St. Francis of Assisi, the saint of humility, peace and simplicity.

The shrine represents:

  • A humility as a spiritual path
  • A connection with nature and animals
  • The search for a lighter, simpler and more generous life

The people of the Northeast have a deep devotion to São Francisco, who is known as the protector of the poor and suffering.

Mother and Queen Shrine (RS)

Located in Santa Maria, Rio Grande do Sul, this shrine is part of the Schoenstatt Apostolic Movement and is dedicated to the Mother Thrice Admirable Queen.

It represents:

  • A covenant with Mary as a guide to spiritual life
  • The call to Christian mission in everyday life
  • Building a new society through the transformation of the heart

The place is marked by silent prayers, devotional groups and a strong presence of families and young people.

Shrine of Our Lady of Rocio (PR)

In Paranaguá, the Sanctuary of Our Lady of Rocio is one of the oldest in BrazilIt was founded in the 17th century. The saint is patron saint of the state.

It receives around 500,000 devotees a year.

It represents:

  • The Marian faith of southern Brazil
  • The search for healing and protection
  • Devotion that spans generations

During the month of November, the festival in honor of the saint takes place, with processions and celebrations involving the whole community.

Why visit a shrine?

Even if you don't follow a specific religion, visiting a shrine can be a profoundly transformative experience. It's not just about rituals. It's about:

  • Being in a place filled with spiritual meaning
  • Silencing the mind to listen to the soul
  • Renewing vows, thanking for achievements, asking for direction
  • Breathing faith, whether through tradition or inner search

The energy in these places is different. It's as if every prayer left there, every candle lit, every tear shed, kept echoing between the walls and the gardens.

How do you prepare to visit a shrine?

You don't need anything fancy. But it's worth remembering a few simple things:

  • Go with respect and an open mind
  • Bring a request, a thank you or even a silence
  • Avoid rushing. Sanctuary is a place to pause
  • Observe the details: symbols, people, silent prayers
  • If you can, attend a Mass or celebration

You don't need a ready-made faith to visit a shrine. Often, it is precisely there that she awakens.

See also: Prayer to calm the anguished heart and bring peace

April 27th, 2025