Inside Peneda - Gerês

Deep within the Peneda-Gerês National Park, the Sanctuary of Nossa Senhora da Peneda rises from the mountains like a whisper of faith carved in stone. Its monumental staircase, flanked by statues representing virtues, leads visitors to a temple embraced by nature. Legend tells of a shepherd girl who received a divine vision here, sparking centuries of pilgrimage and devotion. Every corner of the sanctuary breathes spirituality, history, and a profound connection to the surrounding landscape.Just a few kilometers away, the espigueiros of Soajo stand like timeless guardians. These granite structures, topped with crosses, were built to protect harvested grain—but today, they symbolize a community that lived in harmony with the land. Arranged on a communal threshing floor, the espigueiros preserved not only corn, but also traditions, dances, gatherings, and stories that shaped rural life. Walking among them feels like wandering through an open-air museum, where every stone has a story to tell.