Pilgrimage of Bom Jesus da Lapa

The Pilgrimage of Bom Jesus da Lapa is one of the most traditional and expressive manifestations of religious faith and popular culture in Brazil, held annually in the city of Bom Jesus da Lapa, in Bahia. It takes place between July 28 and August 6, bringing together hundreds of thousands of pilgrims from various parts of the country who come to give thanks for blessings received, renew vows, and experience devotion to Senhor Bom Jesus da Lapa—hence the city’s reputation as the “Bahian Capital of Faith.”

The tradition began more than three centuries ago, when the Portuguese friar Francisco de Mendonça Mar discovered a cave on Morro da Lapa and established a sanctuary there, which today is the central site of the religious celebrations.

During the days of the pilgrimage, novenas, Masses, processions, and pilgrimages through the caves of the Sanctuary take place, along with moments of prayer and expressions of faith, including touching ex-votos and offering heartfelt prayers.

In 2025, the pilgrimage was officially recognized as a manifestation of national culture, reinforcing its historical, social, and spiritual importance to Brazil.