Pauliteiros Traditional Dance in Miranda do Douro

On the last Saturday of every month, the streets of Miranda do Douro come alive with the sounds and movements of the Pauliteiros, in an initiative by the Municipal Council that invites residents and visitors to experience one of Portugal's most emblematic traditions.

The Pauliteiros de Miranda are groups of dancers who perform what are known as «lhaços», traditional dances of ancestral origin that combine rhythmic movements with the clashing of wooden sticks. This performing art, passed down from generation to generation, is recognized as Intangible Cultural Heritage and represents the most striking symbol of Mirandese cultural identity.

The show «Eu Vou a Miranda Ver os Pauliteiros» (I'm Going to Miranda to See the Pauliteiros) takes place through the streets of the historic city center, offering spectators an authentic and immersive experience. The Pauliteiros groups, dressed in their traditional costumes, fringed skirts, embroidered vests, and hats decorated with flowers, parade through the streets performing various choreographies to the sound of the Mirandese bagpipes and drum.

The initiative is part of a permanent cultural program created by the Municipality of Miranda do Douro to ensure that visitors can always witness this unique tradition, regardless of the time of year. The event is completely free and open to all audiences, providing the warm welcome characteristic of the Mirandese people.

Miranda do Douro, located on the Transmontano plateau along the border with Spain, is also known for its own language, Mirandese, and the stunning landscape of the Douro Internacional Natural Park. A visit to the city on the day of this show can be complemented with a boat trip along the Douro River, a visit to the Cathedral, or a tasting of the famous posta mirandesa (Mirandese steak).

Don't miss this unique opportunity to witness one of the oldest performing traditions on the Iberian Peninsula, in a truly unforgettable historic setting.