In 1790, whispers of the “Santo Preto” echoed through the villages. We stand now before Campa do Preto, a place etched in local memory. The story, as it’s told, centers on a nameless black servant, employed by a nobleman in Guilhabreu. This nobleman, whose identity has faded with time, had a cruel streak. One day, angered by his servant’s act of mercy, he tied him to his horse. The nobleman then rode at a gallop, dragging the unfortunate servant. The horrific act left the servant’s body dismembered along the road to Gemunde. Here, at Campa do Preto, the villagers found the servant’s head and laid him to rest. Campa do Preto is more than just a gravesite. It’s a place of remembrance and devotion, a curious blend of pagan and Christian beliefs. A festival, known as the Festa da Campa do Preto or Festa da Cereja, still takes place here. This festival, mentioned in historical accounts from the Maia council website, carries on the memory of the Santo Preto. Despite investigations ordered by the District Administrator in 1790, which found no remains, the devotion persisted. The story even made its way into the prestigious “Tripeiro” publication in 1909. Look around. A stone mausoleum and a cross, dated 1883 and 1892, stand as testaments to the enduring reverence for the Santo Preto. These were erected by fishermen from Matosinhos, promising offerings during stormy weather. Even today, people come to Campa do Preto to pray and offer their respects. The tragic tale of the Santo Preto reminds us of the stark contrast between rural and urban life in this ancient land.
Campa do Preto
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