The decision, based on a proposal by the cultural assets department of the public institute Cultural Heritage, “acknowledges the importance of this religious and identity-based event dating back to the 19th century, highlighting its historical, social, and cultural value, as well as the active involvement of the local community in its preservation,” stated the municipality of Cantanhede in a note to the Lusa agency.
The note adds that the inclusion in the National Inventory “not only elevates the festival as a national-level intangible cultural heritage but also aims to ensure its protection and continuity.”
The statement further revealed that the distinction took into account the current dynamics of the event—which this year takes place from July 24 to 27—as well as the proposed strategies for its future enhancement, involving the community of Ançã, local associations, and municipal entities.
“I wish to congratulate the Parish Council of Ançã and the Grupo Típico de Ançã for the excellent work done in preparing the application that enabled the inclusion of the Festa and Pilgrimage of S. Tomé in the National Inventory of Intangible Cultural Heritage,” said Helena Teodósio, Mayor of Cantanhede (district of Coimbra), as cited in the note.
For the mayor, the distinction is a valuable institutional recognition of the patrimonial value of an event “deeply rooted in a community proud of its traditions and that, moreover, generates great interest throughout the region,” consistently drawing a large audience.
“On the other hand, this is the best way to preserve for posterity the true essence of the Festa and Pilgrimage of São Tomé, as its recognition and legal protection ensure its safeguarding and facilitate its enhancement. Its registration in the inventory helps to elevate the event, makes it more visible and known, and facilitates the transmission of its identity dimension to new generations,” the mayor argued.
