Nossa Senhora da Boa Estrela

Nossa Senhora da Boa Estrela is a 7-meter-high bas-relief sculpture carved directly into a granite rockface at Covao do Boi in Serra da Estrela, Portugal, at an altitude of 1,850 meters. Inaugurated in 1946, it was sculpted by Antonio Duarte and depicts the patron saint of shepherds, reflecting centuries of pastoral tradition in the mountain range. According to local legend, the Virgin appeared to a shepherd, reinforcing her role as protector of those who endure the harsh mountain winters. An annual pilgrimage is held on the second Sunday of August.