Santarém, Portugal imposes traffic restrictions for live‑statue festival

From 7 to 9 August, the historic centre of Santarém will see temporary road closures and parking bans as the seventh edition of the Festival de Estátuas Vivas takes place. The municipality has identified several streets – Rua Dr. Teixeira Guedes, Rua Guilherme de Azevedo, Rua Serpa Pinto, Rua Capelo e Ivens and Largo Padre Francisco Nunes da Silva – where vehicle circulation will be limited at specific times each day. Parking is also prohibited near the Igreja de São Nicolau and at loading zones on Rua Serpa Pinto.

Organisers advise drivers to check the posted schedules, obey temporary signage and use alternative routes or parking areas where possible. The festival, dedicated to ancient professions, will feature live statues, musical entertainment, children’s activities and a public vote for the favourite character during evening performances.