Marking 565 Years Since the Passing of Infante D. Henrique
On 13 November, the Algarve takes time to mark the 565th anniversary of the passing of Infante D. Henrique (Prince Henry the Navigator, 1394–1460). This figure stands as a central personality in Portugal’s maritime expansion and its historic projection onto the world stage during the Age of Discovery.
With this important date, the Algarve is keen to evoke the Infante D. Henrique’s contribution to knowledge and to the development of a territory inherently oriented towards the sea and dialogue between different cultures. The commemoration events are rightly centred in Sagres and Lagos, the places where the Infante left an enduring mark.
Sagres: The Symbol of Discovery
The Promontory of Sagres is not only famous for its dramatic beauty, but the European Union also recognises it with the prestigious European Heritage Label. It is considered one of the main symbols of European maritime and scientific history, representing Portugal’s key role in the genesis of global expansion and the formation of a global vision of the world. It was at the Fortress, situated on this very Promontory, that Infante D. Henrique spent his final years and eventually passed away.
Today, the Sagres Fortress reinforces the region’s commitment to valuing its historical and cultural heritage. It currently houses a Multimedia Exhibition Centre dedicated to the Discoveries. This impressive investment was co-financed by European funds managed under the Algarve Regional Programme – CRESC Algarve 2020. These same European funds, managed within the region, helped finance this Multimedia Centre, dedicated to the Discoveries and Infante D. Henrique, serving to evoke his role in the School of Sagres and the Discoveries.
A Day of Remembrance: November 13th Events
The commemorations are scheduled throughout the afternoon and evening of November 13th:
In Sagres
The celebrations at the Fortress are being held in partnership with the Vila do Bispo Municipal Council and the Parish of Sagres. The programme includes:
- 14:30: A Suffrage Mass.
- Following the Mass: A violin and piano recital.
- 16:00: The laying of a wreath at the commemorative standard.
In Lagos
As the promoter of the Portuguese Discoveries, the Infante is also remembered warmly in Lagos, with the local community associating itself with the memory. The local homage takes place as follows:
- 18:00: A homage in Praça do Infante.
- Following the homage: Mass at the Church of Santa Maria.
We encourage all residents and visitors to participate in these important historical tributes, celebrating the legacy of the man who helped shape the Algarve’s connection to the sea and the wider world.
