For the Portuguese, Saint Anthony is not “the one from Padua”: he is Saint Anthony of Lisbon, the city’s patron saint, the saint of street parties and lovers. In Spain, we call him Saint Anthony of Padua, but his story begins just a few steps from Lisbon Cathedral. We’ll tell you who he was, how June 13 is celebrated, and why his medal is one of those that brings us the most joy.
Who was Saint Anthony
His name was Fernando de Bulhões, and he was born in Lisbon around 1195 into a noble family. At a very young age, he joined the Canons Regular of Saint Augustine, first at São Vicente de Fora and then at the monastery of Santa Cruz in Coimbra, where he studied the Scriptures in depth.
In 1220, the relics of the first Franciscan martyrs, who died in Morocco, arrived in Coimbra. That testimony changed his life: he joined the Order of Saint Francis, took the name Anthony, and set off for Morocco as a missionary. He fell ill and had to return, and a storm eventually blew his ship off course to Sicily. This is how he arrived in Italy, where he proved to be an extraordinary preacher.
He preached in Italy and France, defended the poor, and reconciled enemies. He died near Padua on June 13, 1231, at around 36 years old, and was canonized less than a year later. In 1946, he was proclaimed a Doctor of the Church.
The patron saint of lost things and the patron saint of matchmaking
Saint Anthony is the one people turn to when they lose something, from their keys to hope itself. He is also the patron saint of matchmaking: those looking for someone to share their life with ask for his help, and those who have found their partner thank him. That is why his medal makes such a beautiful gift for lovers, engaged couples, and newlyweds.
June 13 in Lisbon
June in Lisbon smells of grilled sardines and basil. On the night of June 12–13, neighborhoods fill with street parties, popular marches parade down Avenida da Liberdade, and lovers give each other a pot of basil with a romantic quatrain and a paper carnation. On the 13th, the Saint Anthony Weddings are celebrated, and many Lisbon residents visit the Church of Saint Anthony, built on the site where, according to tradition, he was born.
A prayer to Saint Anthony
Glorious Saint Anthony, who was born in Lisbon and carried the Gospel so far: help me find what I am looking for and, above all, never lose my faith. Protect my family and those I love most. Amen.
Take Saint Anthony with you
In our family, Saint Anthony is a very beloved saint, and that is why we designed his medals with special care: round, handmade in Spain, with natural pearls, stones, and enamels, and plated in gold. Each one comes with an exclusive illustration of the saint and his story, packaged as a gift. It is the perfect gift for an Anthony or an Antonia, for a wedding, or for June 13.
And we ship to Portugal for €5.95.
Take Saint Anthony with you
The most beautiful medals in the world are at Khartes.
Marian and Bárbara
The most beautiful medals are at www.khartesmadrid.com. Follow us on Instagram: @khartesmadrid.