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Easter in Portugal

Easter Traditions in Portugal

Holy Week in Braga

What are the Easter Traditions in Portugal?

Easter in Portugal is not about bunnies and eggs. The country is rich in age-old traditions and rituals. That celebrates the Christian liturgical year’s main feast.

Easter in Portugal Traditions include the “folar” (easter bread) and sponge cake (recipe). Folar is a piece of sweet bread that comes with a boiled egg in the middle. Representing rebirth and the resurrection of Jesus Christ.

Codfish is eaten as the main meal on Good Friday and Holy Saturday.

The Catholics don’t eat meat until the resurrection. It is celebrated on Easter Sunday. The traditional dish on this day is the roast lamb. Holy Week marks the end of Lent in the run-up to Easter.

Read more: Best Time to Visit Portugal.

What happens in Portugal at Easter?

easter portugalThe profoundly Catholic country is steeped in religious rituals and traditions and follows people from the smallest villages to the largest cities.

The Holy Week in Braga is the most imposing, attractive, and famous for all in Portugal. That is the most important tourist and religious event in Braga. It is estimated that about 100.000 people attend the processions. It combines elements of the liturgy, ancient traditions, and innovation.

The Holy Week is celebrated in Braga as in no other town in Portugal. We join solemnity and pomp. The streets are lined with candles and colorfully decorated. During the holy procession, visitors and devotees gather along the darkened streets to witness this incredible moment of devotion.

The ‘Penitência’ procession, which represents Christ’s final steps while being led to Calvary, is perhaps the most pious event. Another is the Senhor Ecce Hommo procession and Our Lord’s funeral procession. Both take place on Good Friday under a shroud of silence, which draws an end to this majestic cycle of the Holy Week processions. And that means the beginning of the Easter celebrations.

Braga is a fascinating town full of traditions and places to visit. Braga is famous in Portugal for being the main religious center in the country. It is also known for its baroque churches, magnificent 18th-century houses, and elaborate gardens and squares.

The Bom Jesus do Monte Shrine, the Sanctuary of Our Lady of Sameiro, and Falperra are unusual places. That should be included in any tour of Braga. Due to their beauty and religious value. They make up a triangle based on religious interest and are surrounded by unspoiled green areas.

And there are countless other religious celebrations. Pagan festivals intersect with the religious calendar,  occurring mainly in the summer and waiting for you in the region.

Read more: Best Things to Eat in Portugal?

easter in portugalEmbark on an Easter Journey: Experience the Magic of Holy Week in Braga!

During Holy Week in Braga, one of the most striking sights is that of the Farricocos. These barefooted men, dressed in black tunics with cinched waists and hoods, walk solemnly through the city streets carrying torches. This tradition hearkens back to a time when public penance and reconciliation held significant importance in religious observance, a practice that persisted until the 15th century.

See our Tours During the Holy Week in Braga!

Farricocos can be seen in Braga on Thursday and Good Friday. Locals and visitors alike gather to witness the somber procession of Farricocos, whose mysterious and historical presence invokes a profound sense of reverence and contemplation. As they traverse the city, these figures symbolize the gravity and spirituality of the season.

For those eager to immerse themselves in Braga’s rich cultural and religious heritage during Holy Week, observing the Farricocos is an unforgettable experience. Their presence serves as a poignant reminder of the deep-rooted traditions and enduring faith within the community, fostering reflection and spiritual connection among all who witness their procession.

You will see Farricocos exclusively in Braga, Portugal, these mysterious figures bring an air of mystique to the streets during certain processions. Yet, their influence extends beyond the confines of Braga.

In the vibrant ambiance of Malaga, Spain, the Farricocos make a cameo appearance, known locally as Capirote, adding a unique charm to the festivities under the Mediterranean sun. Their presence, though distant from their Portuguese origins, echoes with a similar allure.

But the reach of the Farricocos transcends continents. In the heart of Brazil, within the state of Goiás, echoes of this tradition resound.

I am planning to buy souvenirs on Good Friday. Will the stores open?

Certainly, if you’re looking to buy souvenirs on Good Friday in Braga, you’ll find that stores are open. Despite Good Friday not being an official public holiday in Portugal, Braga attracts numerous tourists, prompting businesses to remain operational. It’s worth mentioning that while some individuals in Portugal may opt to take the day off for extended family time, overall, you can expect stores to be open. However, be aware that stores will be closed on Easter Monday in Braga.

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Tips

Here are our Tips for Travelling to Portugal, recommendations, where to eat, checklist, and other information. Read here.

Embark on a Sacred Journey During Holy Week in Braga!

BRAGA TOUR

Unique Experience in Braga. 3-Hour Private Tour in Braga.

  • Visit the first cathedral in Portugal.
  • Use the incredible hydraulic funicular to climb to the Sanctuary of Bom Jesus.
  • Explore the fantastic Bom Jesus do Monte. We will spend a few hours in its park and take some photos in the lake area. Come down the stunning staircase with our guides.

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BRAGA FOOD TOUR

3-hour food walking tour. Five stops with tastings in Braga.

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Are you a solo traveler? Book this guaranteed departure date: Braga Food Tour.

easter vacations portugalAre you planning to visit Portugal after Easter?

Are you dreaming of basking in the warm sun, exploring charming streets, and indulging in delicious cuisine in Portugal? Well, the perfect opportunity awaits you! Join us for an extraordinary Post-Easter Vacation in 2024, with confirmed departure dates from Thursday, April 04, 2024, to Thursday, April 11, 2024. But act fast, as there are only 4 spots left, making it an ideal setting for solo travelers seeking a unique adventure.

Why book your Portugal getaway online?

1. Exclusive Departure Dates: We’ve carefully planned our itinerary to ensure you experience the best of Portugal post-Easter. Depart with confidence, knowing your adventure is set to unfold on the confirmed dates.

2. Limited Spots: With only 4 spots remaining, this is your chance to secure a spot for an intimate and personalized experience. Don’t miss out on the opportunity to explore Portugal with a small, like-minded group.

3. Perfect for Solo Travel: Traveling alone? No problem! Our Post-Easter Vacation is tailor-made for solo adventurers, providing a perfect blend of independence and group camaraderie. Connect with fellow travelers and create memories that will last a lifetime.

Extend Your Journey to the Douro Valley:

But the excitement doesn’t end there! Elevate your experience by booking a post-tour extension to the enchanting Douro Valley. Immerse yourself in the stunning landscapes, savor the region’s renowned wines, and create a deeper connection with Portugal.

How to Book:

Securing your spot is just a click away! Head to our online booking platform and reserve your place for an unforgettable journey through Portugal. Whether you’re a seasoned traveler or venturing into solo exploration for the first time, our Post Easter Vacation promises an enriching and delightful experience.

Don’t let this opportunity slip away—book online now and make your post-Easter escapade to Portugal a reality! Join us for an adventure filled with culture, beauty, and the warm hospitality of Portugal.

Our Portugal cooking tours include:

  • Accommodations at beautiful hotels and a country house,
  • Hands-on cooking classes featuring authentic Portuguese dishes,
  • Winery visits and tastings (Port Wine Cellar and Vinho Verde).
  • Foodie excursions to pastries,
  • Cultural visits from Lisbon to Porto,
  • Travel in a small group of up to 10 passengers,
  • Transfers and transportation,
  • And more!

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Read more: How can I get to Portugal?

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