The festival commemorates the life and martyrdom of Saint James the Great, one of the twelve apostles of Jesus Christ. According to tradition, Saint James preached in the Iberian Peninsula, and he is believed to have been buried in Braga. His tomb is located in the Cathedral of Braga, which is the main venue for the festival.
The Festividade do Apostolo Santiago lasts for several days, and it includes a variety of religious and cultural events. The main religious events are the processions, which take place on different days of the festival. The most important procession is the Procession of the Saint, which takes place on July 25th, the day of Saint James' martyrdom. During the procession, a statue of the saint is carried through the streets of Braga, accompanied by thousands of pilgrims and worshippers.
In addition to the religious events, the festival also includes a variety of cultural events, such as concerts, exhibitions, and traditional dancing. There is also a large fair that is held during the festival, where visitors can find a variety of local and traditional products.
The Festividade do Apostolo Santiago is a unique and vibrant festival that offers visitors a chance to experience the rich religious and cultural heritage of Portugal. It is a time of celebration and joy, and it is a wonderful way to learn more about the history and traditions of the country.
