The 195th anniversary of the Battle of August 11 reflects the identity, courage, and resilience of the people of Praia. These are identity and structuring principles that echo from generation to generation and inspire us to preserve the history and culture of our city.

The Mayor of Praia da Vitória, Vânia Ferreira, was speaking at the official opening of the Praia Festivities, which took place this Saturday, the 3rd, in Praça Francisco Ornelas da Câmara.

“Celebrating the Battle of August 11 is also celebrating the identity and resilience of the people of Praia da Vitória. We are a people of the sea, a people of work, a people with open hearts and solidarity. Our historical and cultural heritage is a source of great pride, which is why we must value and make known our path, where we came from, and where we are going,” said the municipal official.

Under the theme “From the Escape of the Royal Family to the Victory of Praia”, this year’s edition focuses on the Battle of Praia da Vitória, fought in the context of the Liberal Wars, where the bay of this city was the scene of struggles between liberals and absolutists.

“The victory of the liberal troops in Praia da Vitória, 195 years ago, served as a significant turning point in the war, solidifying support for the ideals that we currently continue to believe in and that inspire us as a community,” she said.

“I really believe in the importance of defending what is ours, what distinguishes us from others, what makes us unique, and what makes us proud. We want a Praia da Vitória that honors its past, lives its present intensely, and builds a promising future with confidence,” she said.

On the occasion, Vânia Ferreira thanked the Professional School of Praia da Vitória, Tertúlia Tauromáquica Praiense and Só Festas for their commitment and dedication to organizing and enhancing these festivities.

Thanks were extended to the sponsors and municipal collaborators for the essential help they gave to an event of this scale.

“We work hard to welcome you all with open arms, a result that is only possible with the help of our employees, the entire municipal group, our sponsors and also our partners, who greatly enhance this city with their dedication and support,” he said.

“Our dedication is undeniable and our desire to enhance it is genuine. I hope we can achieve new challenges with a view to local development, strengthening the economy and boosting investment. This municipality is and continues to be attentive to the surrounding community, always intending to make efforts to boost activities, actions, and moments that generate wealth and have a clear return. An example of this is these festivities that bring us together today,” said the mayor of Praia da Praia.

“May the Praia da Vitória Festivities be unforgettable, full of energy, harmony, and unforgettable moments!” she concludes.

Until August 11, Praia will be full of beauty and animation, with musical and sporting events, parades, gastronomy, handicrafts, and concerts.

From a Press Release

Translated to English as a community outreach program from the Portuguese Beyond Borders Institute (PBBI) and the Modern and Classical Languages and Literatures Department (MCLL) as part of Bruma Publication and ADMA (Azores-Diaspora Media Alliance) at California State University, Fresno, PBBI thanks Luso Financial for sponsoring NOVIDADES.