By the GoNazaré Team●21 October 2026
São Brás Pilgrimage in Nazaré
Every 3 February, Nazaré climbs São Bartolomeu Mount for one of the town’s oldest festivals, linked to its foundation.
A Nazaré tradition and popular festival
History and tradition together
The São Brás Pilgrimage takes place every year on 3 February. The tradition comes from the story of the founding of Nazaré, when the last Visigoth king, Rodrigo, and Friar Romano fled the Moorish invasions by boat and reached the Portuguese West coast.
They are said to have brought the relics of Saint Blaise (São Brás) and Saint Bartholomew, as well as the wooden statue of Our Lady of Nazaré. Friar Romano became a hermit and lived on São Bartolomeu Mount, where the São Brás hermitage stands at the top.
It is one of the most popular festivals in the whole region and always draws large crowds during the day.
Guided tour
A local guide takes you to the Sítio, the São Miguel Arcanjo Fort and the town’s traditions, with the stories you will not find in guidebooks.
Frequently asked questions
When is the São Brás Pilgrimage?
Every year on 3 February, at the hermitage on São Bartolomeu Mount.
What is the origin of the São Brás Pilgrimage?
Tradition links it to the arrival of Friar Romano and King Rodrigo, who are said to have brought the relics of São Brás and São Bartolomeu and the statue of Our Lady of Nazaré.
More about Nazaré
This article was prepared by the GoNazaré team, the Nazaré tourist guide. Please check dates, opening hours and prices before your visit.