Classified Site of Mount Saint Bartholomew

Category: Nature > Reserva natural

District: Leiria > Nazaré > Nazaré > Monte de São Bartolomeu

Location

The Monte de São Bartolomeu Classified Site rises to an altitude of about 156 meters, forming a prominent magmatic formation in the surrounding landscape of Nazaré. It is located in the Monte de São Bartolomeu urbanization, offering a unique perspective of the town and its surroundings. Its summit can be reached via a path starting from the eastern side or by a more recent staircase, which ascends the western slope, making the climb to the top easier.

Natural Heritage

Recognized as a Classified Site since 1979, Monte de São Bartolomeu stands out for its remarkable natural richness. This site hosts a significant biodiversity of fauna and flora, with about 150 types of vascular plants identified. Of these, 15 are considered Iberian endemisms, which underlines the ecological importance of this area. Currently, its reclassification as a national natural monument is underway, reinforcing its environmental value and the need for its preservation.

A Look at History and Legend

At the top of Monte de São Bartolomeu, amidst large rock formations, stands the Chapel of Saint Blaise and Saint Bartholomew. This chapel was part of an ancient hermitage, whose structures, including the small churchyard, are still visible today, inviting one to imagine life in this place long ago. The chapel's patron saint is intimately linked to the famous Legend of Nazaré, which narrates the arrival of D. Rodrigo and Friar Romano in 711, fleeing, bringing with them the image of Our Lady of Nazaré and relics of Saint Blaise and Saint Bartholomew.

Beyond the legend, the Mount holds memories of a past where, for some time, it served as a refuge for assailants, inspiring fear in the local population. Inside the chapel, two sepulchral slabs can be observed, telling stories from other times. Historically, the mount was known as "Monte Siano" in ancient accounts and is popularly called "Monte Saião" by the fishing community.

Tradition and Devotion

This place is the stage for a secular tradition linked to the devotion of Saint Blaise. Every year, on February 3rd, the population of Nazaré makes a pilgrimage to the Mount to celebrate the saint's day, in an atmosphere of festivity, sharing, and revelry. This annual pilgrimage is so significant that, for many locals, the Mount is simply known as Monte de São Brás, bearing witness to the community's deep connection to this site.

License: https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0/deed.pt