The legend of the Barcelos Rooster Source

In the Archaeological Museum of the city of Barcelos, there is a medieval cross associated with the legend of the Barcelos Rooster.

The legend says that the inhabitants of the city were alarmed because someone had committed a crime and the criminal could not be found. One day a Galician appeared who aroused suspicion and the authorities decided to arrest him. Despite his oaths of innocence, no one believed he was a pilgrim on his way to Santiago de Compostela to fulfil a promise.

Sentenced to be hanged, he asked to be brought before the judge, who was feasting with some friends, and there he again affirmed his innocence. Since no one believed him, the Galician pointed to a rooster roasting on the table and said: 'It is as certain that I am innocent as it is that this rooster will crow when they hang me'.

And what seemed impossible happened! As the pilgrim was being hanged, the rooster rose from the table and crowed. The judge rushed to the gallows and when he saw that the knot in the rope prevented strangulation, he immediately ordered him to be released and left in peace.

A few years later, the pilgrim returned to Barcelos and erected a monument in honour of St James and the Virgin.

The representation of the colourful rooster of Barcelos was adopted as the symbol of Turismo de Portugal for many years.

(Source: Visit Portugal website)