
BARCELOS
A Town of Craftsmanship, Markets, and the Legendary Rooster
Barcelos is best known for its rich cultural heritage, vibrant markets, and the iconic Rooster of Barcelos, a symbol of Portuguese folklore. Situated on the banks of the Cávado River, Barcelos is a picturesque destination that blends history, tradition, and a lively modern atmosphere.
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Barcelos has a deep-rooted history, dating back to Roman times, with its importance growing during the Middle Ages when it became a major administrative and economic center. The town is mainly associated with the legendary Rooster of Barcelos, a national symbol of faith, justice, and good fortune, based on a famous local legend. This story has become central to Barcelos' identity and is celebrated throughout Portugal with the colorful ceramic rooster, widely recognized as a country symbol.
According to legend, a Galician pilgrim passing through Barcelos was wrongly accused of stealing silver and sentenced to be hanged, despite his pleas of innocence. Before his execution, he was taken to the judge's house, where a banquet was being held. The pilgrim pointed to a roasted rooster on the table and declared, "I am as innocent as this rooster will crow when I am hanged."
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As the man was about to be hanged, the roasted rooster miraculously stood up and crowed. Realizing his mistake, the judge rushed to the gallows and found that the man had survived due to a poorly tied knot. The pilgrim was freed, and in gratitude, he later returned to Barcelos to sculpt the Cruzeiro do Senhor do Galo, a monument now displayed in the Barcelos Archaeological Museum.

One of the key historical landmarks in the town is the Paço dos Condes de Barcelos, a 15th-century Gothic palace that now houses the Archaeological Museum of Barcelos, where visitors can explore the town’s rich medieval past. Nearby, the Torre da Porta Nova, a remnant of the old city walls, is a testament to Barcelos’ historical importance as a fortified city.
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Barcelos is renowned for hosting one of Portugal’s largest and most colorful weekly markets, held every Thursday. The Barcelos Market is a hub of local life, where farmers, artisans, and traders gather to sell everything from fresh produce to handmade crafts. The market is especially famous for its pottery, particularly the iconic rooster figurines, and offers an authentic glimpse into traditional Portuguese craftsmanship.
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Barcelos has long been a center for folk art and crafts. In recognition of its deep tradition of pottery and ceramic work, the town is part of the UNESCO Creative Cities Network for Crafts and Folk Art. Walking through the streets of Barcelos, visitors will find numerous workshops producing the famous colorful ceramics that have become synonymous with the town.
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In addition to its crafts, Barcelos is also known for its lively festivals. The Festa das Cruzes, celebrated in May, is one of the town's most important festivals. It blends religious devotion with local traditions and features parades, fireworks, and vibrant decorations throughout the town, attracting visitors from across the region.
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Today, Barcelos is a bustling town that retains its traditional charm while offering modern conveniences. Its historic center, with narrow cobblestone streets and traditional houses, invites leisurely exploration, while its parks and riverside walks provide a peaceful escape from the lively market scenes.
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Visit the web page of Barcelos
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