Portugal Cult and Occult

Freemasonry is the theme of the first episode of this series, in which we will address - in a pedagogical way - spiritual organizations, their genesis and implementation in our country, with the evocation of remarkable moments, through small recreations. This project constitutes an unprecedented journey on our television, led by historian João Rodil and journalist Rita Saldanha.

The Templar Orders, their genesis and implementation in our country. Eight knights and a master (Hugo de Payens) founded, in 1119, in the ruins of Solomon's Temple in Jerusalem, the Order of the Poor Knights of Christ and the Temple of Solomon, commonly known as the Order of the Templars. The connection and importance of the Order of the Templars in the foundation of Portugal is immense, especially in the conquest and defense of the Tagus coast. This episode portrays the Knights Templar, evokes pilgrims and scenes from the time, as well as emblematic places such as Almourol Castle and the Convent of Tomar.

Druidism is one of the oldest spiritual traditions in Europe and, particularly, in the national territory. From the mythical pre-diluvian peoples to the Celts and Celtiberians, we have lived for millennia under the spiritual mantle of the Druids, in their worship of Mother Nature, the Magna Mater. In other words, we went from a religious matriarchy to a patriarchy.

For many years, women were excluded from Freemasonry as the rituals did not allow their presence during Lodge sessions, a place reserved only for men. However, in today's society, where women partner with men in all aspects of life, several women's Lodges and even some mixed Lodges have naturally emerged.

Alchemy is the theme of this episode. True mother of modern Chemistry and Physics, its practice had a huge resurgence in our territory with the Arab occupation, great enthusiasts of Alchemy, and which lasted among us until at least the 16th century. XVI.

Rosicrucianism is a brotherhood of enlightened people that emerged in Germany in the 16th century and spread to neighboring countries in the 17th century, when it became publicly known through three manifestos. It is part of the Western esoteric tradition. It is a Council dedicated to the study and investigation of social issues of great relevance, such as Health, which has encouraged, over time, the practice of medicine.

The Franciscan Order is the subject of this episode. Founded in 1209 by that notable figure, Saint Francis of Assisi, it arrived in Portugal after a short time - exactly eight centuries ago - and has carried out remarkable work on a social level. Also known as the Order of Friars Minor, with a philosophy that aims to apply the Catholic practice preached by Jesus, in helping the poorest and most disadvantaged.

The name theosophy appears in the third century of our era, however, theosophy gained notoriety, in the so-called Western world, after the founding of the Theosophical Society by Helena Blavatsky, in 1875.

Founded in 1888 in Great Britain, this order brought together some of the most studious elements of Freemasonry and Rosicrucianism who were dedicated to the study and human thought, in its most hermetic aspects.

The so-called Western societies, deeply materialized and capitalized, have created a spiritual void in people that is difficult to fill. Not finding answers to their desires in canonical religions, many people turned to other practices and rites. On the other hand, easy access to global information has made it possible to rediscover alternative paths throughout the world, from the East to the Americas, African cults and, more surprisingly, the revitalization of ancestral European cults and practices.