Hello, everyone! Ready for another exciting A Dica do Dia? Today, we’re diving into a significant date for Cariocas: January 20th, the day we honor Saint Sebastian in Rio de Janeiro. Did you know that Rio was once called Saint Sebastian of Rio de Janeiro?
During the battles between France and Portugal in Rio, legend has it that Saint Sebastian fought alongside the Portuguese, and not a single arrow struck him. From then on, he became the patron saint of our iconic Marvelous City. The Rio Cathedral is even dedicated to him!
Who was Saint Sebastian?
Let’s start with the basics: Who exactly was Saint Sebastian?
Saint Sebastian was a Roman man dedicated to spreading his faith. One famous story recounts how he converted a woman named Zoe, who had been mute for six years. Through her conversion, she miraculously regained her voice, marking the first time Sebastian gained recognition.
However, practicing Christianity in the Roman Empire was perilous. Although Sebastian initially concealed his faith, he was eventually discovered in 286 AD. Ordered to be tied to a stake, he was shot with arrows and left for dead. But when his followers retrieved his body for burial, they found him alive. Saint Irene nursed him back to health.
Despite surviving, Sebastian boldly confronted the emperor about his persecution of Christians. Enraged, the emperor ordered his execution by cudgel. Afterward, a Christian woman named Lucina recovered his body and buried it in a catacomb.
The History of Saint Sebastian of Rio de Janeiro
When Portuguese explorers landed at Guanabara Bay in January 1502, they mistook it for the mouth of a large river and named it Rio de Janeiro (River of January).
In 1555, French troops under Nicolas Durand de Villegagnon took control of the area, renaming it “Henriville” after King Henry II of France. A decade-long battle followed, led by the Portuguese commander Estácio de Sá. Victory came on March 1, 1565, when the Portuguese established the city as São Sebastião do Rio de Janeiro, in honor of Saint Sebastian.
Today, every January 20th, a procession begins at the Church of the Capuchins in Tijuca and ends at the Metropolitan Cathedral to commemorate the patron saint.
Saint Sebastian Modern Marvel: Rio de Janeiro Cathedral
Amid Rio’s lively streets, the Metropolitan Cathedral of Saint Sebastian stands as a testament to faith and architectural ingenuity. Its unique conical design, inspired by Mayan pyramids, is a magnet for visitors.
Inside, you’ll be captivated by the stunning stained-glass windows that rise over 60 meters, bathing the interior in vibrant colors and reflecting Brazil’s Catholic heritage.

Dedicated to Saint Sebastian, the cathedral symbolizes resilience and faith—qualities that define Rio’s spirit. Whether attending Mass, admiring the architecture, or simply enjoying its peaceful ambiance, it’s a must-visit landmark.
Want to know more? Visit our website for a detailed guide to the Cathedral of Rio de Janeiro.
Who is Saint Sebastian the Patron Saint of?
Saint Sebastian is the patron saint of soldiers, athletes, and those who desire a saintly death. He is also invoked as a protector against plagues.
In the context of Rio de Janeiro, Saint Sebastian holds a special place as the patron saint of the city, symbolizing courage, resilience, and faith, qualities deeply tied to the spirit of Rio’s people.
What Do People Do This Day?

Saint Sebastian is a Christian saint and also the patron saint of the city of Rio de Janeiro. That is why, on January 20, the Cariocas celebrate his day.
In the historical account, Saint Sebastian was a soldier who enlisted in the Roman army in the year 283 AD. At the time, Rome kept Christian soldiers as prisoners, and Saint Sebastian often visited them. His quiet demeanor towards Christian prisoners made the Roman emperor judge him a traitor. He was condemned to death with arrows in his body.
The Cariocas devote the Day of Saint Sebastian to the procession of Saint Sebastian, that is, a parade in honor of the patron saint of the city, carrying his graceful statue on an altar. People go to the Catholic Church, where they participate in the Mass in the name of holy Saint Sebastian. Then, they walk towards their final destination, making prayers and asking for protection from him in relation to their lives.
The church in which the graceful statue of the patron saint of Rio de Janeiro is located is Catedral Metropolitana de São Sebastião no Rio de Janeiro. You can go visit it on the January 20th. Or, perhaps, you can go on another date on our Cathedral RioLIVE! when you come study Portuguese with us.
Are you Catholic? Do you know about our Lady of Aparecida?
Saint Sebastian of Rio de Janeiro Podcast Episode
Saint Sebastian of Rio de Janeiro Podcast Episode
Looking for a podcast to fix your understanding of this fascinating Brazilian topic? Tune in to our A Dica do Dia Podcast in English!
Eager to take your Portuguese skills to the next level? Listen to our A Dica do Dia Podcast in Portuguese to solidify your learning.
In your city, is there a holiday as important as this? Tell us in the comments below! See you in the next Dica!
An extra kiss from the Rio & Learn team!
Click in the links below to see more related Dicas
Holidays in Brazil
Carioca’s New Year
Festa Junina in Brazil
Lover’s Day
Online Academic Coordinator at Rio & Learn Portuguese School.
Experienced educational coordinator and teacher since 2007, adept in curriculum development, creating physical and digital educational materials, and leveraging online platforms to enhance learning outcomes
2 Responses
It was in 1565, not 1965 that Estácio de Sá and company founded the city. In the same paragraph, it states that they FOUND the city. It should say FOUNDED.
You are completely right, Janelle! Sorry for the spelling mistakes and thank you!!!