Branded Content
It was in October 2023 that the announcement came. The village of Ericeira had been distinguished with the award for “Best Tourism Village,” an accolade bestowed by the World Tourism Organization (UNWTO).
This award recognizes tourist destinations of reference, with a maximum of 15 thousand inhabitants, situated in a landscape with a significant presence of traditional activities, sharing values and lifestyles of the community. Additionally, its attribution is based on compliance with Sustainable Development Goals linked to the 2023 Agenda, in 9 distinct areas ranging from the Promotion and Preservation of Cultural Resources, Economic, Social, and Environmental Sustainability, Tourism Development, among others.
Undoubtedly, recognitions like this bring added responsibilities, making the role each stakeholder plays more visible, contributing to the maintenance and preservation of the village’s identity, culture and traditions, as well as its heritage and natural resources.
It’s undeniable that Ericeira is a fishing village with a rich history, something that sets it apart from the start. The earliest references to fishermen date back to its first charter granted in 1229, and fishing remains one of the most distinctive and respected traditions. Márcio Barros, president of the Ericeira Professional Fishermen’s Association (APPER), explains that “preserving this art is part of any ‘jagoz’, wanting to maintain traditions. I can’t imagine tourism would be possible in the same way if we weren’t a fishing village with such a strong tradition”.
Modernized Traditional Fishing Boats – ph. CMMafra
Surfing has gained increasing prominence, being one of the major factors behind global interest in Ericeira. The rise in the number of practitioners and competitors has grown exponentially, with over 40 official surf schools emerging in about 10 years — information provided by the Ericeira Surf Clube. It was also in the village that major brands in this cluster established themselves, creating employment and attracting more tourists seeking “waves” and a connection with nature.
Miguel Barata, president of the Ericeira Surf Clube, explains that since the Clube’s inception there have been various challenges, including ensuring that the beaches and the territory can accommodate the influx of newcomers.
“Thanks to the efforts of many, we have sought to maintain the necessary balance, intervening in certain areas so that everyone can enjoy this unique wonder that is Ericeira.”
Cave – ph. Gonçalo Plácido
Going back to traditions, being a village linked to maritime activities, religious devotion maintains a strong presence, visible not only in the material heritage but also in its festivities, such as the Festivities in Honor of Our Lady of Good Voyage (Nossa Senhora da Boa Viagem) or Saint Peter (São Pedro), for example. In all these occasions, there is a sound (or several!) that resonates: that of Filarmónica Cultural da Ericeira, an institution with over 170 years of history. Rita Jorge, president of the association, explains that “the context of the Filarmónica is deeply rooted in the village, and despite its long history, we always maintain what is tradition, what is original. For example, during processions. It has been like this from the beginning: there’s a celebration in the village, and the band accompanies.”
Filarmónica Cultural da Ericeira – ph. RR
When we combine much of what has been mentioned so far, we talk about culture. Despite its broad definition, we essentially speak of the set of structures, beliefs and habits that define a community. The cultural resources of a village like Ericeira are numerous, many of them preserved by popular wisdom and the older generations.
Instituto da Cultura Europeia e Atlântica (ICEA), based in the village, assumes a practically unique position as a cultural institution, promoting conferences, colloquiums and exhibitions, often in spaces provided by the municipality. José Freitas, President of the Institute, shares a bit about this award, which he believes “only brings positive things for ICEA, as it can attract more people and raise awareness.”
ICEA Exposition – ph. João Maria Jorge
There are many who contribute daily to ensure that this award continues to be a reality. The future brings its own challenges and it’s urgent not to let so much tradition and natural beauty be forgotten. The distinctive tourist offer, anchored in the quality of the beaches, also constitutes one of the main socio-economic drivers of the village, and as Márcio Barros from APPER tells us, “Tourism can generate interest in our traditions, taking our culture to other places.”
Esta publicação também está disponível em | This article is also available in: Portuguese (Portugal)
