The municipality of Ourém approved the implementation of a two-euro tourist tax in the region, generating great controversy, especially in Fátima. The measure is part of an effort to generate additional revenue through the flow of tourists who visit the Marian sanctuary annually.
The Sanctuary of Fátima expressed strong opposition to the tax, considering it harmful to pilgrims and visitors. The institution even threatened to close public facilities such as restrooms and parking lots as a form of protest against the municipality's decision.
After the strong reaction from the Sanctuary, the institution backed down from its initial position. However, the conflict between the municipality of Ourém and the Sanctuary of Fátima highlighted the tensions between the need for municipal funding and the interests of the religious institution that manages one of the main tourist and religious destinations in Portugal.
