The day of miracles

O Dia dos Milagres (The Day of Miracles) is a passionate journey into the final days of the Philippine regime, which would collapse in the coup d'état that initiated the Braganza dynasty. The author sets the action in Vila Viçosa, where the Dukes of Braganza lived, and guides us through days of anxiety, terrible days lived amidst beliefs and superstitions, marked by revolts and suffering, in a poor and weary Portugal, traumatised by the tragedy of Alcácer Quibir, from where they awaited the return of King Sebastian. December 1, 1640, was a unique moment in Portuguese history. A date that was disregarded, even ceased to be a holiday, a decision that shames Portuguese memory. A handful of noblemen, supported by the people of Lisbon, faced the most powerful Empire in the world. And they restored dignity to Portugal. It is the preparations for this extraordinary saga that run through the pages of this passionate, tender novel, so that collective memory does not forget what the new servants of our time have forgotten, judging Portugal to be no more than an accounting ledger.