Our Lady of Health

Our Lady of Health

First Sunday in May

The worship of Our Lady of Health dates back to the 16th century, but the procession in honour of the Virgin would not be established until 1570. The year, in which Lisbon was once again decimated by the effects of the plague. The gunners of San Sebastian made a vow to Our Lady to end the great plague, which came to pass.

Year after year, the procession took place until 1910 when it was interrupted. Resumed in 1940. It ceased to take place again between 1974 and 1981. Currently the procession incorporates the images of Saint Barbara, Saint Anthony, Saint Sebastian and Our Lady of Health.

It is a very colourful procession with extras and portable platforms, which includes representatives of all military forces and also with music bands marking the pace of march. The procession opens with the image of Saint George mounted on horseback and escorted by a horseback detachment of the Cavalry Regiment of the Republican National Guard.

Route: Igreja de Nossa Senhora da Saúde - Rua do Benformoso - Largo do Intendente Pina Manique - Travessa do Cidadão Gonçalves - Avenida Almirante Reis - Rua da Palma - Praça Martim Moniz - Rua D. Duarte - Praça da Figueira - Rua dos Condes de Monsanto - Poço do Borratem - Rua do Arco do Marquês de Alegrete - Igreja de Nossa Senhora da Saúde.