The Feast of Our Lady of Bonança, in Vila Praia de Âncora, in the municipality of Caminha, once again attracted thousands of faithful and visitors to celebrate its age-old maritime traditions. The centuries-old pilgrimage, with records dating back to 1883, is deeply tied to the identity and faith of the local fishing community.
One of the most emotional moments of the program was the Naval Procession of Our Lady of Ínsua, which filled the small harbor of the town. Dozens of fishing and recreational boats, properly adorned, accompanied the sacred image by sea from the Fort of Ínsua. The highlight of the ceremony was the moving encounter on the beach between Our Lady of Ínsua and Our Lady of Bonança, followed by a heartfelt tribute to the local fishermen who lost their lives at sea.
In addition to the religious ceremonies and the Candle Procession, the program extends over several days and includes the traditional Ethnographic Parade "Men of the Sea," which mobilizes dozens of associations and float displays to portray the customs, attire, and traditions of the Âncora Valley.
