The feasts in honour of Nossa Senhora da Saúde, take place in Monte Murado, in a well-cared natural environment, among the days 12, 13, 14 of August, attracting thousands of visitors so that there they can accomplish their promises and pray their prayers.
The chapel, situated on top of this hill, has three altars with a tribune of gilt woodwork. In the high altar we worship the image of Nossa Senhora da Saúde, and still the image of S. Gonçalo, S. Martinho, S. Libório, S. Vicente, Saint Rita and Baby Jesus. In this altar exists a tabernacle coffer, where it is permanently the Holy Sacrament. In the lateral altar, right side we worship the image of Saint Eufémia, S. Luis Gonzaga and S. José.
In the lateral altar left side we worship Nossa Senhora de Fátima, the sacred heart of Jesus and Saint Teresinha do Menino Jesus.
Next to the chapel and in open air is raised an altar, under an awning, where take place two open air masses, one at 9h00 and the one from the festivity around 11h00, going afterwards the long procession and the endless faithful’s line, shined by philharmonic groups, thousands of pilgrims carry long candles, intercalating with the respective portable platforms, go down and round the cruise and go up again a steep hillside and closing, the music bands.
Beyond the animation, one shouldn’t miss the traditional grilled sardines, the roasted cod, the “caldo verde” (soup) with the typical “broa” (type of bread), “farturas” (strip of fried dough) house trailers, sweets and fruit. During the day we have the participation of several musical groups, with fireworks at 24 hours. On the following day, we have the famous horse race, rings and parade, and at night the exhibition of musical groups. This pilgrimage is considered as one of the biggest religious festivities of Gaia and the North of Portugal.
Location: Vila Nova de Gaia
