Today, June 10, is the Day of Portugal, Camões and Portuguese Communities. But how did this day come about and what are its traditions?
Keep reading to find out:
Origin
In 1880, the first “holiday” on June 10 was given in honor of one of the greatest figures of Portuguese culture, Luís de Camões. That year and possibly that day marked 300 years since his death.
It is then on that date, the 19th century, the first record of this national holiday.
Day of Portugal, Camões and Portuguese Communities
The current name of the celebration was only adopted in 1978, and until then it was called Camões, Portugal and Race Day. However, with the fall of the Estado Novo (fascist regime) in 1974, the name was reformulated due to the different philosophies of the two governments.
Every year a city is chosen to host the festivities, and the one chosen is visited by the President of the Republic.
On this day the President makes a speech, processions are held, there is a Commemorative Military Ceremony, and an Air Force Band concert, among other traditions.
This year, 2022, the celebrations will be held in Braga and will be attended by Marcelo Rebelo de Sousa, the current president of the Portuguese Republic.
