February has arrived and, with it, the most awaited day by many: Valentine’s Day. On this date, couples around the world celebrate love and friendship.
In Portugal, February 14th is not only a day to express feelings, but it also has a great tradition that goes back more than 300 years of history. In the northern region of the country, a custom known as the Lenço dos Namorados (‘Handkerchief of Lovers’) is celebrated, one of the most romantic and meaningful.
Once again, Hotel Carrís Porto Ribeira, located in the heart of Porto, invites lovers to immerse themselves in the magic of this day, becoming the perfect place to celebrate Valentine’s Day. Visitors can enjoy a unique experience in one of the most romantic cities in Europe, surrounded by history, culture and, of course, the customs that make Porto a destination full of charm.
The origin of the Lenço dos Namorados
The history of the Lenço dos Namorados has its origin in the 18th century, in the north of Portugal, when young women embroidered these cotton handkerchiefs as a way of expressing their feelings towards their partners. These handkerchiefs were small, usually white, and were characterized by brightly colored embroidery with dedications and special messages.
Once embroidered, these women gave them to their boyfriends or husbands. Men, in turn, had to wear them at important events such as celebrations, fairs and festivities, either around their necks or in their jacket pockets. The handkerchief, then, was not only a symbol of love, but also a public message of sentimental correspondence.
The meaning of this tradition was clear: if a man did not wear the handkerchief embroidered by his beloved, the latter should consider that the bond was not consolidated and, consequently, should look again for a marriage opportunity. The Lenço dos Namorados thus became a symbol of commitment and sincerity, which endures to this day.
Although times have changed and the ways of expressing feelings have evolved, the Lenço dos Namorados remains a powerful symbol of love in Portugal. Today, you can find these handkerchiefs in many souvenir stores in Porto, where tourists can take a piece of this tradition home with them.
Celebrate Valentine’s Day at Carrís Porto Ribeira
This February 14, Hotel Carrís Porto Ribeira offers couples the opportunity to celebrate this day with a dinner menu created specifically for the occasion. In addition, you can enjoy a rich themed cocktail, ‘Kiss Club’.
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Also, the hotel’s location, right in the historic center of Porto, makes it the ideal place to enjoy a romantic getaway, with stunning views of the Douro River and the city.
So, if you are looking for a unique place to celebrate Valentine’s Day, Carrís Porto Ribeira is the ideal destination to enjoy the magic of love, Portuguese tradition and an unforgettable experience in the charming city of Porto.
