At this time of year, around 11 November, it is usually sunny, interrupting the typical cloudy and cold autumn weather. We call this the summer of São Martinho!
The 11th is dedicated to S. Martinho
At this time of year, around 11 November, it is usually sunny, interrupting the typical cloudy and cold autumn weather. We call this the summer of São Martinho!
The person responsible for this usual good weather, even out of season, is Martinho, a knight in the Roman army.
It is said that one autumn day in the year 337, in the middle of the fourth century, when Martinho was returning home, on a freezing and stormy day, he found a beggar who asked him for alms. Martinho had nothing with him that he could give him. He then decided to take the robe of a Roman soldier from his back and cut it in half, offering half to the beggar. At that same moment, the storm that was being felt gave way to a radiant sun.
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This moment was known as the “summer of São Martinho”. Since then, around the 11th of November, it is expected that the colder and sometimes rainy weather will give way to sunnier days. It became known as the miracle of Saint Martinho.
It is due to this legend that the 11th of November is commemorated the day of Saint Martin. This fact coincides with the time of year when the work in the field is finished and it is at this time that the harvests begin to be enjoyed, including chestnuts and wine, meaning that this festival has a whole component that tends to prevail. and to take root even more.
This is a festival that is much cherished by the population in general, not only because of the various activities related to roasting chestnuts and tasting wines throughout the country but also because of the legend that sustains all the traditions.
Liturgically, Saint Martinho\’s Day is also celebrated on November 11, the day the Saint, who died on November 8, 397 (81 years old), was buried in Tours, France. His generosity and humility in helping the underprivileged have made him one of the most beloved saints in the population. During the Middle Ages and until recently, he was one of France\’s most popular saints. In fact, this anniversary is celebrated not only in Portugal but also in other countries such as Italy, Spain, and Germany.
