Today Vila Real has as one of its traditions, the day of Santa Luzia is celebrated wiht the tradition of women giving Pito de Santa Luzia to men, who live there with the Gancha in Febuary, on the day of São Bras.
The Vila Real city council announced its intention to inscribe this tradition in the National Inventory of Intangible Heritage after the bom Jesus do Calvário candidacy process was completed, as the Cultural advisor Mara Minhava says:
In fact, we have not yet started work on this inscription, but we intend to do so because we are still finishing Bom Jesus do Calvário.
We have already outlined this intention in the strategic cultural plan for 2030. In addition, Santa Luzia, the patron saint of eyes and vision, exists throughout the world, and also in São Bras. But what is certain is that this religious cult only exists in Vila Real, where it is hit and miss. And so, it makes perfect sense to do this candidacy, as soon as we finish the Bom Jesus do Calvário candidate.
Vila Nova and Ermida are the two towns in Vila Real where the tradition is still the strictest, and every December 13 there is a Eucharistic celebration in honor of Santa Luzia and also the sale of Pitos.
The Vila Velha Museum also marks this date every year with actions aimed at young people in order to perpetuate the tradition:
We had it at the Vila Velha Museum, explaining to the children about this legend, about Pito de Santa Luzia and giving it to the youngest is very crucial.
Filled with pumpkin jam and covered with flour dough, the pito is shaped like a type of ancient furniture placed in plain sight. In February, men turn to hooks…
CIR DATA (Written and Photographed by Rádio Universidade FM)
How does the Pito de Santa Luzia pastry symbolize community connections in Vila Real?
Interview wiht Cultural Expert on Vila real’s Unique Tradition of Santa Luzia
Today we’re joined by Dr. Clara Alves, a cultural anthropologist adn expert in Portuguese traditions, to discuss the significance of Santa luzia and the ongoing efforts to inscribe this unique tradition into the National Inventory of Intangible Heritage.
Q: Dr. Alves,thank you for joining us. Could you tell us about the significance of the Santa Luzia tradition in Vila Real?
A: Thank you for having me! The tradition of Santa Luzia in Vila Real is deeply rooted in local culture.Every December 13, the community gathers for a Eucharistic celebration in honor of Santa Luzia, who is the patron saint of eyes and vision.This event not only marks a religious observance but also highlights an intriguing local custom—the giving of Pito de Santa Luzia, a delicacy filled with pumpkin jam. It’s a beautiful way to celebrate community and connection, particularly among women who traditionally gift these treats to the men in their lives.
Q: What is Pito de Santa Luzia, and how does it connect with this tradition?
A: Pito de Santa Luzia is a unique pastry shaped to resemble a type of ancient furniture, and it’s filled with sweet pumpkin jam, then covered with flour dough. The act of giving Pitos is symbolic; it reinforces social bonds and cultural identity. Each february, the men of the community even transform into “hooks,” which likely signifies a playful element in the ongoing tradition. the Pito is more than just a treat; it encapsulates the spirit of togetherness and local heritage.
Q: The Vila Real city council aims to inscribe this tradition into the National Inventory of Intangible Heritage.Why is this critically importent?
A: Inscribing the Santa luzia tradition into the National Inventory of Intangible Heritage is crucial for several reasons. Frist, it brings broader recognition and appreciation of Vila Real’s local culture. As cultural advisor Mara Minhava mentioned, this effort aligns with their strategic cultural plan for 2030.Such recognition helps preserve the tradition for future generations, ensuring that young people understand and appreciate their heritage. it also emphasizes the uniqueness of Vila Real’s practices, which differ from similar customs found globally.
Q: how is the Vila Velha Museum engaging the youth regarding this tradition?
A: The Vila Velha Museum plays an essential role in perpetuating the tradition by organizing activities aimed at educating children about the legend of Santa Luzia and Pito de Santa Luzia. By doing this, they not only keep the tradition alive but also instill a sense of pride and duty in younger generations. Teaching them the stories and significance behind these customs is instrumental in maintaining cultural continuity.
Q: As more communities seek to preserve their unique traditions, what practical advice do you have for them?
A: Communities looking to safeguard their heritage should focus on documenting their traditions, engaging local youth, and tying these customs to contemporary societal values. collaboration with cultural institutions, as seen with Vila Velha Museum, can amplify efforts. Moreover, establishing events that invite participation can create a deeper connection to the traditions. It’s about fostering a community spirit where everyone feels involved and represented.
Q: In closing, what can our readers take away from the Santa Luzia tradition?
A: The Santa Luzia tradition reminds us of the beauty and importance of local customs in cultivating community identity. As the world becomes more interconnected, preserving these unique traditions not only enriches local culture but also contributes to the diverse tapestry of human experiences.I encourage everyone to explore and participate in their local traditions, as they are invaluable links to our shared history.
Thank you, Dr. Alves,for sharing your insights on this marvelous tradition!