The Portuguese Ministry of Culture has recognized the Romaria de Nossa Senhora d’Agonia — Edição 2025, a project organized by Viana Festas, as a culturally significant event eligible for cultural patronage benefits. This recognition allows the initiative to receive fiscal benefits as outlined in the Cultural Patronage scheme, according to a declaration issued by Dalila Rodrigues.
A source from the Ministry of Culture confirmed that the declaration does not need to be published in the official government gazette to be effective, noting that it is sufficient for the association to receive sponsorship support.
The Culture Minister emphasized in the declaration that sponsors must not have any outstanding income, expenditure, or property tax debts, nor Social Security contributions at the end of the fiscal year or donation period. If such debts exist, they must be legally contested, and adequate guarantees provided.
VianaFestas announced that the Romaria de Nossa Senhora d’Agonia now joins a select group of initiatives acknowledged by the state for their historical and cultural significance, enabling them to attract significant financial support from businesses.
“This recognition clearly highlights the cultural importance of the Romaria de Nossa Senhora d’Agonia to Viana do Castelo and the country. It’s a concrete opportunity to strengthen the sustainability of this major event through patron support. Supporting the Romaria is an investment in culture, ethnography, and a project that mobilizes the identity of Viana do Castelo,” stated Manuel Vitorino, president of VianaFestas.
He further added that this distinction represents a chance for companies and citizens to contribute to the preservation and promotion of popular culture through tax-beneficial donations.
In 2024, the festival attracted over one million visitors, and its online content, including live broadcasts, reached approximately 1.5 million people worldwide.
This year’s festivities are scheduled from August 12 to 20.
The devotion to Nossa Senhora d’Agonia began in 1751 with the arrival of the image at the Chapel of Bom Jesus. In 1783, the Sacred Congregation of Rites granted permission for an annual solemn mass on August 20, a date that Viana has celebrated as a municipal holiday ever since.
