Peter of Rates was a 1st-century bishop of Braga, located in northern Portugal. According to religious tradition, he was a disciple of the apostle James the Great, who allegedly ordained him to lead the local Christian community. While historical records regarding his direct connection to James are considered legendary, he is traditionally honored as a martyr. He is said to have been executed for his efforts to convert the local population from Roman religious practices to Christianity.
Life and death
Tradition suggests that Peter served as the first bishop of Braga around the middle of the 1st century. He is remembered as a martyr who was beheaded while preaching his faith. Some accounts claim he was drinking from a fountain in Balasar at the moment of his death, a site where two indentations are still believed to be the marks left by his knees.
Discovery and relics
In the 9th century, a fisherman named Felix reportedly found the body of the saint after following a mysterious light. This discovery led to the construction of the Romanesque Monastery of Rates. The relics were eventually moved to Braga Cathedral in 1552, although modern scientific analysis of the remains suggests they may belong to a child from the 9th century.
Veneration
The saint is commemorated on April 26. Local devotion includes visiting two fountains in the Póvoa de Varzim area, which are believed to possess miraculous properties. In certain villages, pregnant women and female animals are traditionally excused from work on his feast day to honor his memory.