Gigantones and Cabeçudos in Viana do Castelo

Romaria de Nossa Senhora d’Agonia, the annual pilgrimage in Honor of Our Lady of Agony, the patron saint of local fishermen dates back to ancient times. It is held annually in Viana do Castelo, and is one of Portugal’s largest religious festivals.

The tradition of Gigantones dates back to 1265. These towering, hollow figures, supported by a harness, have wooden or aluminum frames and papier-mâché heads and hands that swing freely. Cabeçudos, smaller figures with oversized heads, playfully chase each other and sometimes children.

As Gigantones and Cabeçudos spin and dance, they are accompanied by Grupos de Bombos—massive drum groups with 20+ drummers pounding bass drums and tom-toms. Competing for the loudest and most energetic performance, they march counterclockwise around the praça (central square), beating to the accelerating rhythm.

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