The famous and traditional “Banho Santo” returns to Manta Rota beach next Tuesday, 29 August, at 11:00 am, marking the date on which, according to tradition, São João Baptista was beheaded.
In years gone by, this was the day when the people of the Algarve mountains traveled to the beach, accompanied by pack animals, to take a bath believed to be “saint” and capable of curing all ills.
At the end of the ritual, the celebration ended with a picnic.
To keep the tradition alive, the association “A Manta” «and the VRSA City Council are investing, for another year, in the historical recreation of the event, attracting hundreds of curious people to the beach of Manta Rota to see how things used to be in other times» , says the VRSA Chamber.
The festivities, which run until the 29th, include a series of concerts and dances, starting at 22 pm, where bands and artists such as Mónica Sintra, who will take the stage on the 00th of August, will pass by .
On the 27th of August, the poster includes a solidarity race, at 9:00 am, in favor of the construction of the Chapel of Manta Rota.
On August 29, the day of São João Baptista, the festivities begin with the Holy Bath, at 11:00 am, at Manta Rota beach, where all associated traditions will be revived. At 18:30 pm, there is a procession and open-air mass in honor of St. John the Baptist.
Later, at 22 pm, the dance begins with the “Duo Reflexo”, followed by a fireworks show at midnight on the sandy beach of Manta Rota.
All concerts take place in the square of the old casino and admission is free.
The festivals in honor of São João da Degola are organized by the association «A Manta» and have the support of the Municipality of Vila Real de Santo António, the Parish Council of Vila Nova de Cacela and other local entities and companies.
Comments