Lisbon or Madrid for my mom?

Since no one has responded we'll give it a try. We go to Portugal fairly often and have spent a fair amount of time in Lisbon and have never been bored. We have not been to Madrid in 25 yrs so this recommendation is biased. We would still recommend Lisbon. It's a smaller, cosier city with many sites in walking distance. It has the famous Alfama neighborhood where you can see Castelo de Sao Jorge and see interesting architecture. There are Roman and Moorish ruins in the cloister of the Cathedral (Se) and also on a street about a block away. You can also take the bus to the boat dock and take the ferry across the river to Calheta and if you're up to it take the bus or taxi to see the statue of Christ. Lisbon has many fine historic churches although not as grand as Madrid, still worth seeing. We stay at Residencial Florescente in Lisbon which is on a pedestrian street. It's recommended by RS and you can also read reviews on bookings.com. From there you can walk to several of the main Pracas (squares) and to the water. It is also easy walking to shopping and restaurants as well as the train and metro if you want to go to other parts of the city.
It seems you have only 7 days after Lourdes so going to Lisbon and then Fatima would save you travel time and give you more time to experience Portugal. Not far from Fatima is the great Convento de Cristo in Tomar. You might think about renting a car for a few days as the highways are easy to navigate and you will save time and be able to visit more than one location. You didn't say where you're flying out of. If it is still undecided, you could rent a car for 3 or 4 days when you arrive in Lisbon and then turn it in and have 3 or 4 days in Lisbon before flying out. Have fun deciding.

I'd suggest Lisbon. It's a fun and easy place, also much better logistics with Fatema.

Since it is not that easy to get from Portugal to Spain, I suggest Lisbon. That and the fact that Lisbon is one of the most charming, underrated cities in Europe. These are two of my favorites out of three dozen cities that I have been to over there, and you really cannot go wrong either way. Depending on your mom's age, she might also find Lisbon less overwhelming. The shopping would be better in Madrid though. If you do choose Lisbon, I highly recommend a side trip to Sintra, preferably for an overnight. If you can make it to Alcobaqa (sp?) you will not be disappointed. Obidos, Nazare, and Tomar are all in the same general area and very worthwhile.

Wow, what wonderful suggestions! Thank you for taking the time to let me know your experiences . . . it is truly appreciated. Lisbon it is!

My vote is for Lisbon. It is a fab city religious or not and it will allow you more time in Fatima which is gd for a solid day espec if you are religious. Lots of wonderful things to do in Lisbon, museums, churches, sights, views,coffee houses, daytrips are terrific ie. Sintra etc.
Madrid while also interesting is a hustle bustle city and its true merit is its museums mostly.

Just to throw a kink in things how about Santiago de Compestela. Awesome cathedral, and the end of the pilgrimage. We went from Lisbon to there, spent the night, and went back to Lisbon. Stayed at a little bed and breakfast a block from the cathedral As Artes. Fatima is an easy day trip from Lisbon provided you don't take the train.