Os Tronos de Santo António (Thrones of Saint Anthony) are a profoundly Lisboner symbol of cultural expression and of neighbourhood cultural identity. The thrones are a significant element when celebrating Saint Anthony in Portugal in Lisbon. These ornate structures play a central role in the festivities, adding a touch of grandeur and religious symbolism to the events. Go here for the Porto Cascatas de São João.
Origins
The Thrones of Saint Anthony tradition in Lisbon started after the great earthquake and tsunami of 1755. Not much was left of the city in the wake of this destruction. Among the structures that withstood the earthquake was the Church of Santo António, which, it is true remained standing, but only just.
In order to help rebuild it, the people organized fund-raising collections, and the thrones set up by children at their front doors played an important role in mobilizing the residents.
“Um tostãozinho para o Santo…” is what they would say and still do to this day. Nowadays they say moedinha instead of tostãozinho, though I think the money gets spent on sweets (most likely 😂)
Trivia: one tostão in the old Portuguese currency (Réis) was worth 100 Réis. Silver tostões were minted from 1695 to 1833, in copper only from 1811, being more common only from 1818.
Grammar notes: suffixes “-inho“ on tostão and “-inha” on moeda are diminutives giving the words a more endearing meaning rather than just “little coins”.
Decorative Altars
Although they are called thrones, they have no connection to the royal seats. Their structure is between an altar and a piggy bank, erected in layers, like a triangular-shaped staircase. So, the Tronos de Santo António are essentially decorative altars honouring Saint Anthony for the purpose of collecting alms and donations. They are typically set up in several locations throughout the city, including churches, streets, and even private homes during the month of June, in the lead-up to the big day. These elaborate structures serve as focal points for prayers, devotions, and public veneration of the saint.
Artistic Design and Symbolism
The design of the Tronos de Santo António is artistically intricate and with attention to detail. These altars lavishly adorn an array of ornamental elements, such as flowers, candles, ribbons, and colourful fabrics and of course, an image of the Saint himself standing at the top. The decorations often feature the traditional colours associated with Saint Anthony, which are verde (green) and branco (white).
Symbolism plays a vital role in the design of the Tronos de Santo António. Each element is carefully chosen to represent aspects of Saint Anthony’s life, his virtues, and his spiritual significance. For example, lilies symbolize purity and are often incorporated into the decorations as a representation of the saint’s devotion to God.
Devotional Practices
The Tronos de Santo António serve as focal points for prayers and devotions during the celebrations. People visit these altars to offer their supplications, express gratitude, and seek the intercession of Saint Anthony. It is common to find individuals lighting candles or leaving written petitions or tokens of gratitude at the foot of the Tronos.
Community Involvement
One remarkable aspect of the Tronos de Santo António is the involvement of the community in their creation. Many neighbourhoods and associations come together to build and decorate these ornate altars. This collective effort fosters a sense of unity and shared devotion among the people, emphasizing the importance of community and faith.
Preservation of Tradition
The tradition of the Tronos de Santo António has been passed down through generations. With efforts made to preserve its cultural and religious significance. The elaborate decorations and public display of these altars serve to keep the spirit of devotion alive. This allows locals and visitors to engage with the rich heritage and traditions associated with Saint Anthony.
In Conclusion
The Tronos de Santo António are magnificent displays of religious devotion and artistic expression during the Saint Anthony celebrations. These decorative altars serve as focal points for prayer, veneration, and community involvement. They allow people to come together in a spirit of faith and unity.
May these ornate altars continue to inspire and strengthen the faith of those who encounter them. Keeping alive the traditions and devotion associated with Saint Anthony for generations to come.
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