1. 1. Christmas Traditions in Portugal
2. 2. Christmas is the celebration of the birth of Jesus and it is one of the most important celebrations for the Catholics.
3. 3. This tradition started in 1233 as a way to represent the Birth of Jesus. The figures of the Nativity Scene are also used to represent other scenes from the time when Jesus was born and many people use them in their homes during the Christmas season. Some public places also use the Nativity Scene during this season, but the Christmas Tree is gradually replacing this tradition.
4. 4. The first references to the Christmas tree in Europe go back to the 16th century. The tradition was slowly introduced in the Catholic countries In Portugal the Christmas Tree was not welcomed until the 50s. In rural areas it was totally ignored Nowadays, it is present in almost every Portuguese home during Christmas!
5. 5. The Midnight Mass Missa do Galo is the traditional mass that celebrates the birth of Jesus. It is celebrated on Christmas Eve and it was introduced by the Roman Catholics in the 5th century. In Portugal it is called Missa do Galo, Rooster Mass, because it is believed that the rooster was the first animal to announce Jesuss birth.
6. 6. The story of Santa Claus is based on a true story. In the 4th century, Saint Nicholas used to give presents to people. In some countries people used to get presents on the 6th December, Saint Nicholas Day. As the figure of a nice, white-bearded old man became more and more popular, Santa Claus became very important, especially for children, who believe he brings presents to them if they behave well.
7. 7. Traditionally, on Christmas Eve, Portuguese people eat boiled Codfish with cabbages and boiled potatoes. Octopus is also traditional in some parts of the country but as a side dish On Christmas Day people usually eat meat Roast Lamb or Turkey. During this season there are also many traditional desserts, many of them are only eaten Christmas: Bolo Rei (King Cake), Arroz Doce (Sweet Rice), Rabanadas and Filhs.
8. 8. THE END Students: Mariana Pinto e Joana Mesquita