LISBON CELEBRATES ITS PATRON, SAINT ANTHONY....

I think I can say that Alfama is the most typical neighbourhood in Lisbon and on these day and nights more than ever. It's the time to celebrate Saint Anthony, the patron saint of Lisbon, making the city become like a large-sized festival of colour, smell of sardines and colourful garlands.

Saint Anthony who is said to have been born in Lisbon, became famous for his generosity that inspired the collection of funds for the reconstruction of Lisbon following the 1755 Earthquake: pleas for “a penny for St Anthony” could be heard all over the city, and this custom continued for several decades, to the particular delight of children. This led to the creation of his thrones that were inspired by northern-style, natural-looking shrines, coloured and fashioned with varying degrees of skill. These honoured the saint whom the city continues to celebrate to this day with a public holiday today (June 13).

This year the local government decided to resume this festive tradition and challenged the people of Lisbon to flex their creative muscles and make their own thrones. Anyone could request a throne model for free from the Museum of Saint Anthony, decorate it as they wish and submit it for the competition. Everyone is a winner, as all of the thrones are displayed to the public throughout the festivities. 

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Have a wonderful week