Do death and the devil need a mask?
A day at the Iberian Mask Interpretive Centre. The costume that accompanies the mask, with its different colours and representations. The traditions that invoke death and the devil.

Latest news and stories about folklore in Portugal for expats and residents.
A day at the Iberian Mask Interpretive Centre. The costume that accompanies the mask, with its different colours and representations. The traditions that invoke death and the devil.

The author recalls the Witches' Street in his childhood village, which he would pass on his way to school, but never after dark. There was also a street like this in Viseu, where a crime took place...

It is another legend – of the many! – featuring an enchanted Moorish woman imprisoned in a castle, who is pitied by a woman that gives her a drink and, in return, receives some coals that transform into gold coins.

It was from the oak gall – or 'gall-nut', as they called it – that the ink used for a long time to write on parchment was extracted. Today, a legend is told that involves oak galls and an enchanted Moorish maiden.

The Grupo Etnográfico GENTE from Aguada de Cima is celebrating its 33rd anniversary with a commemorative dinner on March 21, 2026, at Quinta Vale do Junco. The event aims to bring together members, friends, and supporters to honor the group's contributions to preserving local cultural traditions and promoting ethnographic heritage through festivals, folklore events, and cultural initiatives. The evening features live music by Banda Polk, with participation costing 30 “Gentes.” The celebration emphasizes community involvement and the ongoing effort to keep regional traditions alive.

High-fashion pieces, fogaças baking in the oven, music and folklore with deep roots, and Johnny Johnson’s anti-war manifesto.

They had this curious name, as a kind of metaphor from the author's childhood, but they were simply shooting stars seen on summer nights, once referred to by children as 'shepherd's'.
