We met José da Costa, founder of the Folklore Association of the Portuguese of Monaco (AFPM).
When they came to settle in the emirate in 1979, there was no doubt that José and his wife Balbina would draw a line under the Portuguese roots to which they had always been attached. Originally from Guimarães, the couple, well established in this small area of 2 square kilometers, especially through their family business specialized in construction and renovation, decided to create an association in 1996, in order to bring together everyone who wanted it, around tradition. and Portuguese values.
A bold gamble that paid off: today the organization has 150 members of all ages, whether of Portuguese origin or not. “ “They come from Monaco but also from surrounding cities like Beausoleil, Roquebrune-Cap-Martin, Menton and Nice.” Determines José da Costa.
As the president and founder of the association explained. “ The goal was to gather as many people as possible to promote Portuguese culture. » A folklore group of about fifty people has been formed in parallel with volunteers who are ready to sing and dance in the footsteps of their ancestors.
An unmissable event in Roquebrune
Every year, they participate in a major event organized over two days in Roquebrune-Cap-Martin: the International Portuguese Folklore Festival. Other groups are being added to Monaco’s Portuguese League group. They come from France, Geneva or even Portugal to attend this event that combines fashion shows, traditional games, concerts and dances, and also offers culinary specialties from the Blue Country, such as chicken churrasco for a guaranteed change of scene!
On June 4, on the occasion of the 23rd edition organized in the Jean Géon parking lot, Mayor Patrick Cesare did not fail to greet all those whose hearts are green and red. But it is not only in Roquebrune-Cap-Martin that we experience moments of engagement around Portuguese society. And in Monaco too, for Saint-Jean for example, or for Easter, or even for the Prince’s Day, organs are mobilized. It’s a big task that requires at least two rehearsals a month and trips back and forth to Portugal, especially to find the most beautiful costumes of the period.
Photos from the 23rd International Festival of Portuguese Folklore – © Ville de Roquebrune-Cap-Martin via Facebook
Their two 60-year-old children, now 44 and 38, are heavily involved in the association. “We are very proud of them. When we see our daughter and granddaughter dancing, we feel goosebumps. The tradition has been lost these days, and very few young people care about it, and they have other priorities.”regrets José, is always open to the idea of welcoming new members and new recruits to the folkloric group!
Practical information:
Contributions are €15 per person and €25 per couple throughout the year.
To register, call the association on: +377 93 50 90 02 or +377 93 25 52 57.
