Sanctuary of the Santíssimo Milagre

The Sanctuary of the Santíssimo Milagre is the former Church of Santo Estêvão in the historic centre of Santarém, consecrated in 1241, which keeps the relic of the Eucharistic Miracle of Santarém. The Santarém Municipality dates the miracle to 1247 or 1266, and the church has drawn pilgrims since then.

The church is classified as a National Monument since 1917.

What to see at the Sanctuary of the Santíssimo Milagre

Relic: the host of the miracle, kept in the tribune of the high altar.
Renaissance interior: three naves divided by arcades, with medallions and carved grotesque figures on the columns.
Statues of Saint Peter and Saint Paul: Renaissance statues in niches in front of the triumphal arch.
Baroque decoration: tiles, a choir and gilded carved altarpieces from the first half of the 18th century.

The Eucharistic Miracle of Santarém

The account: according to tradition, a woman of Santarém took a consecrated host from the Church of Santo Estêvão to give to a witch, and the host began to bleed inside the veil she wrapped it in.
The relic: the host was carried back to the church in procession and has been kept there since.
The date: sources give 1247 or 1266.

History of the Sanctuary of the Santíssimo Milagre

1241: the Church of Santo Estêvão is consecrated, as the seat of one of the richest parishes of Santarém.
1247 or 1266: the Eucharistic Miracle takes place in the parish.
16th century: after the earthquake of 1531, the church is rebuilt in the Renaissance style.
First half of the 18th century: the altarpieces and the choir are redecorated in the Baroque style.
19th century: the parish of Santo Estêvão is dissolved and joined to the parish of Marvila.
1917: the church is classified as a National Monument.

Visiting the Sanctuary of the Santíssimo Milagre

Location: the sanctuary is on Escadinhas do Milagre, in the historic centre.
Management: the sanctuary is a diocesan sanctuary of the Diocese of Santarém, which publishes current opening times.