2. Christmas is the celebration of the birth of Jesus and it is
one of the most important celebrations for the Catholics.
3. This tradition started in 1233 as a way to represent the
Birth of Jesus. The figures of the Nativity Scene are also used to
represent other scenes from the time when Jesus was born and many
people use them in their homes during the Christmas season. Some
public places also use the Nativity Scene during this season, but
the Christmas Tree is gradually replacing this tradition.
4. The first references to the Christmas tree in Europe go back
to the 16th century. The tradition was slowly introduced in the
Catholic countries In Portugal the Christmas Tree was not welcomed
until the 50s. In rural areas it was totally ignored Nowadays, it
is present in almost every Portuguese home during Christmas!
5. The Midnight Mass Missa do Galo is the traditional mass that
celebrates the birth of Jesus. It is celebrated on Christmas Eve
and it was introduced by the Roman Catholics in the 5th century. In
Portugal it is called Missa do Galo, Rooster Mass, because it is
believed that the rooster was the first animal to announce Jesuss
birth.
6. The story of Santa Claus is based on a true story. In the
4th century, Saint Nicholas used to give presents to people. In
some countries people used to get presents on the 6th December,
Saint Nicholas Day. As the figure of a nice, white-bearded old man
became more and more popular, Santa Claus became very important,
especially for children, who believe he brings presents to them if
they behave well.
7. Traditionally, on Christmas Eve, Portuguese people eat
boiled Codfish with cabbages and boiled potatoes. Octopus is also
traditional in some parts of the country but as a side dish On
Christmas Day people usually eat meat Roast Lamb or Turkey. During
this season there are also many traditional desserts, many of them
are only eaten Christmas: Bolo Rei (King Cake), Arroz Doce (Sweet
Rice), Rabanadas and Filhs.
8. THE END Students: Mariana Pinto e Joana Mesquita