Gazing at the Capela de São Martinho, imagine a cold, rainy day. A lone rider, Saint Martinho himself, encounters a shivering beggar. Martinho, with nothing else to give, draws his sword and slices his cloak in two. He shares half with the beggar, offering warmth and compassion. This act of kindness, according to legend, parted the clouds. The sun emerged, creating a brief respite from the chill, a phenomenon known as the “Summer of São Martinho.” The Capela de São Martinho stands as a testament to this patron saint of Tours. Born in 316 in Savaria, in what is now Hungary, Martinho’s life was a journey of faith. Despite his pagan upbringing and military career, Martinho embraced Christianity. He was baptized in 356, after leaving the army. He became a disciple of Saint Hilário, the Bishop of Poitiers. Ordained as a deacon and then a priest, Martinho returned to Pannonia and converted his own mother. His miracles drew crowds, leading to his ordination as Bishop of Tours in 371. He founded the Marmoutier monastery, seeking seclusion and a deeper connection with his faith. He died on November 8th, 397, in Candes and was buried in Tours on November 11th, a site that quickly became a place of pilgrimage. The Capela de São Martinho connects us to this rich history. It reminds us of the simple act of kindness that echoed through centuries. The story of São Martinho is celebrated every year on November 11th, the date of his funeral. In Portugal, the celebrations include a “magusto” with roasted chestnuts. People drink “água-pé” and “jeropiga”, a sweet, fermented drink. The Capela de São Martinho serves as a quiet reminder of a life dedicated to faith and compassion.
Capela de São Martinho
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