Across the Plateau of São Mamede

On this third day, the route continues gently to the Sanctuary of Fátima. The path passes through land with significant cultural and natural heritage and considerable biodiversity. It crosses the parishes of Alvados, Alqueidão da Serra, S. Mamede and Fátima, in the municipalities of Porto de Mós, Batalha and Ourém. In Alvados, the well-conserved houses are scattered along old roads flanked by stone walls, through fields and hills, blending seamlessly with the topography and the natural surroundings.

The ascent of the Serra de Aire, via slopes and valleys that unveil a vigorous and wild, but always surprising and beautiful landscape, gives way to a leisurely descent, surrounded by vegetation and trees, eventually opening out into the Plateau of São Mamede. Here, you will find a scattering of small welcoming villages, surrounded by farmland, punctuated by olive trees, common oaks and holm oaks, where you can admire the characteristic colours and flavours. The toponymy of these locations clearly conveys the local geography and history.

As you approach your final destination, the markedly rural setting gives way to signs of urbanity. This is the land where ancient traditions and contemporary existences converge. Highlights of its cultural heritage include the church of S. Mamede, the Moeda caves and the village of Pia do Urso. The ancient tradition of Marian worship is expressed in the nearby Shrine of Nossa Senhora do Fetal, with its church and houses to welcome pilgrims.