Círio de Nazaré, celebrated in Belem do Para, is one of the largest expressions of faith in Brazil. Held annually in October, this event brings together thousands of devotees of Our Lady of Nazareth, turning the streets of the capital Barra into a veritable procession of faith and devotion. With a rich history dating back to the 18th century, Sirio is recognized as Intangible Heritage by the National Institute of Historical and Artistic Heritage (IFAN) and Cultural Heritage of Humanity by UNESCO.
Origin of Círio de Nazaré
Círio de Nazaré's origins are steeped in tradition and religion. In the early 1700s, an image of Our Lady of Nazareth was discovered by a caboglo named Plácido de Souza on the banks of the river where the basilica sanctuary of Our Lady of Nazareth now stands. Placido's devotion to the saint culminated in the first procession in 1793.
Since then, the tradition has continued to grow every year. Today, the Círio de Nazaré is an event that goes beyond the religious aspect, standing as an important cultural and touristic event that moves the capital of Para and attracts visitors from Brazil and all over the world.
Círio de Nazaré stands out for its intricate structure and symbolic rituals. During the fourteen days in October, in addition to the main procession, several important festivals include the transfer, the road pilgrimage, the river pilgrimage, the children's cirio and the recirio. .
One of Sirio's most iconic symbols is the rope. 800 meters long, it is carried by devotees who wish to make promises and is considered a link that binds devotees around their faith. The rope symbolizes the strength of devotion and is an important part of the procession.
🚨 Patron Saint of Para in another Círio de Nazaré! All for her! pic.twitter.com/KrDuNIYNzE
— Belém Atualidade (@belématualidade) October 13, 2024
Cultural and religious events
The Círio de Nazaré program is broad and includes vigils, masses and musical events. One of the event's cultural attractions is the Arraial de Nazaré, which mixes religion and popular culture to offer visitors an intense devotional experience while celebrating local traditions. Another highlight is the musical Cereo, which offers moments of reflection and appreciation through music.
Another event awaited by devotees is the descent of Achato's image to the altar of the basilica's sanctuary. During the Círio period, the image was revealed for viewing, symbolizing the intimacy between the faithful and Our Lady of Nazareth.
Círio de Nazaré not only influenced the religious and cultural aspects, but economically the region. The event boosts tourism and boosts local trade, which is an important source of income for Belem residents, receiving thousands of tourists who participate in the festivities.
Furthermore, Círio strengthens the social fabric, promotes social integration and appreciates intangible heritage. A shared faith becomes a point of convergence for people from different backgrounds and stories, making Círio de Nazaré a unique experience of unity and spirituality.
