Gigantones - Ponte de Lima

The gigantones are characteristic of traditional Minho culture, its legends and ethnography.

The Gigantone – previously also known as Armazonas – is a human-shaped puppet that can grow up to 4 metres high and is a must-see at festivals and pilgrimages in Minho.

With a head made of paper pulp, the 'doll' is handled by someone hiding inside, following the rhythm of the bass drums with clumsy choreography.

As a rule, they appear grouped in pairs, accompanied by large heads that are the normal size of a person.

The tradition of gigantones and cabeçudos is one of the most authentic expressions of popular imagination worthy of inclusion in the list of our intangible cultural heritage.

On the second weekend of September, when the hot summer sun is about to say goodbye, Ponte de Lima decorates itself for its biggest party - the Feiras Novas. The Feiras Novas are a unique moment and a pilgrimage that is considered the "biggest live congress of popular culture in Portugal".

Willem Vandenameele