FEIRA SANTA IRIA

The  Feira Santa Iria is one of the saint's days which is celebrated to the fullest in Tomar, Central Portugal and definitely something not to be missed if you are in the area.

This years' celebrations begin on Friday 19th October and events run through until Sunday 28th October.

The story of Santa Iria has a special significance with Tomar, though the festival is celebrated in other towns within Portugal just as fully.

According to legend Santa Iria was a well educated, beautiful and wealthy young woman, who took holy orders. Despite her family's standing within the community, she was pursued mercilessly by local noblemen, keen to create a union with her family.

Iria (Irene), took her religious vows seriously and resisted. However she was no match for one particular 'would be' suitor, who ravished, then later murdered her when it became apparent she was with child.

Although her 'would be suitor' successfully buried her body, as legend goes, her body was seen floating in the River Tagus.

2007 Santa Iria Festival Poster for Tomar, Central Portual

Today the festival, in Tomar, is organised by the council to celebrate Santa Iria's life, rather than her death - which lead to her being Canonised by the Catholic Church.

Certain streets within the historic centre of Tomar are cordoned off to provide room for the many stalls which descend upon the town to sell traditional crafts, nuts, dried fruits and other items.

In Tomar, the Feira Santa Iria, is not just another religious weekend festival. The event last for a week and there is something for every age group. As well as a modern day 'fun fair' there are live concerts from local bands and groups, most evenings and other activities occurring within the locale.