This procession dates back to the 16th century which was originated from the plague (caused by the bacterium Yersinia pestis) that decimated Europe in the 14th century, causing a terrible mortality. In 1521, Simão Gonçalves, third captain of the donatory of the Captaincy of Funchal and grandson of the navigator João Gonçalves Zarco, together with the City Hall and Funchal’s cleric, elected São Tiago as the patron of the city of Funchal, placing the city and its people under his protection. In 1523, the construction of the “Socorro” church began (meanwhile it was demolished in 1752 and a new one erected, which was completed in 1768), instituting in the same year, the procession of the “Voto de São Tiago”, which goes on the 1st of May.

Credits: Museu de Fotografia da Madeira - Atelier Vicentes's.

JOAQUIM AUGUSTO DE SOUSA | 1st May Procession, passing in Largo das Torneiras | Before 1897
10.7 x 16.3 cmcm | Stereoscopic negative, glass | Silver salt gelatina