SÃO TORCATO (GUIMARÃES)
41° 29' 15" N 8° 15' 30" W
São Torcato is a Portuguese village that is home to the Parish of São Torcato in the Municipality of Guimarães, a parish with an area of 10.39 km² and 3345 inhabitants (2021 census), thus having a population density of 321.9 inhabitants/km².
Its patron saint is Saint Torcato, whose relics (his body preserved, according to the popular expression, incorrupt) are venerated in the Sanctuary of Saint Torcato, located in this parish.
Patrimony
Chapel of Saint Torcato or Church of the Monastery of Saint Torcato
Sanctuary of San Torcato or Basilica of San Torcato
The parish also has a Romanesque church.
Traditions
São Torcato has some traditions:
Fair of 27 (Feira dos 27)
The first festival of the year is held on February 27th (holiday in the village), generally known as the “Feira dos 27”. This festival is already an important milestone in the town’s history. Their origin is not known for certain, but it is known that they are secular celebrations. These festivities bring thousands of foreigners to Vila de São Torcato, and the program usually includes the blessing of the animals, a fair and a livestock competition.
Small Pilgrimage (Romaria Pequena)
On May 15th, the small pilgrimage takes place. This appears in a pilgrimage to the chapel where the Saint was found. After the Eucharist, a challenging song and popular dance festival takes place. It is also common for people to drink water from the saint's spring, as a cure for certain illnesses.
Big Pilgrimage (Romaria Grande)
However, one of the best-known traditions is that of holding every year, on the first Sunday in July, what was called "the biggest pilgrimage in Minho".
These festivities generally last four days (Thursday, Friday, Saturday and Sunday). On Friday and Saturday nights, grand pyrotechnic displays can be seen, with Saturday's show lasting almost an hour and a half, during which you can observe garden crossfire, trapped fire, and cane fire.
On Sunday, at 11 am, the Solemn Eucharist takes place at the Sanctuary of São Torcato. In the afternoon (usually around 5:30 pm) you can witness the grand procession in honor of Saint Torcato, which is made up of floats, costumes, and other adornments. The floats (only two) are a unique national tradition. They are decorated with satin and carry small groups of girls who sing songs alluding to the saint.
Earth Fair (Feira da Terra)
The Earth Fair contains various craft and gastronomy exhibitions and cultural shows. This festival aims to show visitors the linen manufacturing process.
Youth Party (Festa da Juventude)
It takes place on the first weekend of September each year.
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