Barcelos Rooster, a Portuguese icon
The Portuguese Rooster, known as Galo de Barcelos or the Barcelos Rooster, has become one of Portugal’s iconic symbols.
Has it always held such significance? What is its meaning?
When traveling in Portugal, one cannot escape encountering the Galo de Barcelos.
The Galo de Barcelos, also referred to as the Barcelos Rooster or the Portuguese Rooster, goes by several names but symbolizes the same thing.
These roosters can be found not only in souvenir shops offering a variety of items but also in other commercial establishments such as restaurants, bars, and even fashion stores.
In any city or town, Galos de Barcelos are always available for sale, crafted from materials ranging from clay to porcelain to metal.
One notable aspect nowadays is that the majority of those available for sale in Portugal are produced in China or other countries with more economical production methods.
This reflects the globalization phenomenon, from which even the Portuguese Roosters cannot escape.
Most frequently asked questions
Let me address some of the most frequently asked questions I receive about the Galo de Barcelos:
– What does the Rooster of Barcelos, or Portuguese Rooster, symbolize?
– Is there a backstory to the Portuguese Rooster?
– Are they found throughout the country?
– How can one purchase an authentic Portuguese Barcelos Rooster?
I’ll attempt to provide answers to these questions, acknowledging that there may be alternative explanations or stories unknown to me.
I extend an invitation to anyone with differing perspectives or additional stories to share them via email.
On this website, as with all others, whenever I acquire a deeper understanding of the subject, I revisit the article to incorporate updates.
Thus, this website remains a work in progress, open to potential revisions.
The construction of Galo de Barcelos as a national icon is the result of a blend of legend and historical events.
This mixture encompasses the element of time, as both the legend and the historical facts originate from distant periods.
The Legendary Tale of the Portuguese Rooster, also known as the Barcelos Rooster
In the 16th century, two Galician pilgrims journeyed along the Portuguese Way of Santiago, passing through Barcelos and lodging in Barcelinhos, a town across the Cávado River.
The innkeeper, enamored with the younger pilgrim, attempted to seduce him, but he remained steadfast in his pilgrimage.
Enraged by his rejection, she falsely accused him of stealing silver cutlery, leading to his imminent execution by hanging.
Desperate to prove his son’s innocence, the father appealed to the judge, who, while dining on a roasted chicken, demanded proof of innocence: the rooster on his plate must crow.
Miraculously, the roasted bird rose and sang.
Rushing to the gallows, they arrived just in time to witness the boy miraculously saved from hanging, his execution halted by divine intervention attributed to Santiago.
This version, among many, highlights the enduring legend of the Barcelos Rooster.
Note: This legend exists in various versions, with differences in the number of pilgrims, the stolen object, the story’s resolution, and more. I chose this particular rendition for its compelling narrative and captivating elements.
A more concise explanation of the origins of the Rooster of Barcelos, as it is recognized today
In 1931, during the rise of the Estado Novo regime in Portugal, Leitão de Barros, a prominent filmmaker and member of the Organizing Committee of the International Congress of Critique, sought representative gifts for foreign delegates.
He enlisted the help of Artur Maciel, a knowledgeable Minho journalist, to procure gifts from the Feira de Barcelos.
Maciel purchased clay roosters, richly decorated, spending 400 Escudos, the Portuguese currency at the time.
These roosters were presented to foreign entities at the congress.
António Ferro, a renowned writer and politician overseeing the National Propaganda Secretariat, was impressed and showcased the roosters at an International Fair in Geneva in 1935.
This marked the first significant appearance of the modern Barcelos Rooster as an icon of Portugal.
Subsequently, at the Exhibition of the Portuguese World in 1940, the rooster gained widespread popularity and became a staple in Portuguese households nationwide.
Significance of the Portuguese Rooster
As a Portuguese, rather than a tour guide or a history enthusiast, I find it challenging to articulate the precise meaning of the Rooster of Barcelos.
When encountering a Rooster of Barcelos, thoughts about its significance aren’t typically at the forefront.
However, a Portuguese saying, “The truth always comes out on top,” encapsulates the essence of the Barcelos Rooster in both legend and reality.
In the legend, the unjustly accused boy is miraculously saved, reflecting the theme of truth prevailing.
Moreover, the Rooster symbolizes Portugal’s rural heritage, crafted by skilled artisans, embodying a glimpse into the Portuguese soul.
Despite the complexities of its origin stories, the underlying truth shines through, underscoring the resilience and authenticity inherent in Portuguese culture.
Tips for purchasing an authentic Barcelos Rooster
Throughout history, the Rooster of Barcelos has undergone various transformations, resulting in a plethora of shapes and forms.
Currently, the most popular rendition can be explored on the Barcelos City Hall website, offering valuable insights for selection.
As for purchasing options, it largely depends on your location.
In metropolitan areas, veer away from souvenir shops unless that aligns with your preferences.
To conclude
I trust you found this insight into the Galo de Barcelos, or the Portuguese Rooster, enlightening.
If you have alternate stories or anecdotes, please share them, as tales and legends abound like the grains of sand on a beach.
IMPORTANT: Please send me your best picture of a Galo de Barcelos.
Carpe diem,
David Monteiro
