Afro-Brazilian festival celebrates faith, heritage and resistance in Ouro Preto
The historic streets of Ouro Preto recently hosted an Afro-Brazilian festival, celebrating cultural figures such as Our Lady of the Rosary, Saint Ifigenia, Saint Benedict, and Chico Rei. Chico Rei is renowned in Brazilian folklore as a Congolese king who…
The historic streets of Ouro Preto recently hosted an Afro-Brazilian festival, celebrating cultural figures such as Our Lady of the Rosary, Saint Ifigenia, Saint Benedict, and Chico Rei. Chico Rei is renowned in Brazilian folklore as a Congolese king who was enslaved by the Portuguese but later secured his freedom, symbolizing resistance.
The festival featured parades through the colonial city, with participants engaging in music and dance, blending Catholic and African traditions. The event, known as the Reign of Our Lady of the Rosary , is deeply rooted in faith and cultural identity.
The Captain of the Mozambique Guard of Our Lady of the Rosary and Saint Ifigenia, Kedison Guimarães, emphasized the festival's role in fostering joy, culture, and faith within the community.
The historic streets of Ouro Preto recently hosted an Afro-Brazilian festival, celebrating cultural figures such as Our Lady of the Rosary, Saint Ifigenia, Saint Benedict, and Chico Rei.
For many residents, the festival is a personal celebration of heritage. Cristina Simão, a retired resident, remarked on the festival's representation of an ancient and vibrant culture.
The festival has been officially recognized as an intangible cultural heritage of Ouro Preto and the state of Minas Gerais, highlighting its significance in preserving Afro-Brazilian resilience and the enduring impact of African traditions in Brazil.
Based on reporting by Africanews.
