Lumina Festival of Light
Margarida Ornelas
For three days Cascais was the most illuminated town in the country! The light route made up of 26 pieces transforms the historic center and the Bay of Cascais into a unique and innovative cultural experience.
Many interaction with the visitors with illuminated installations, sculptures, displays of light, multimedia projections and video mapping on buildings give a different view of Cascais.
Nuno Maya and Carole Purnelle, founders of the OCUBO atelier, are the creators and artistic directors of this festival.
Light Route
"In this year of the celebrations of the 650th anniversary of the town of Cascais, this is also a way to mark the fact that the first experiment with electric public lighting in Portugal occurred precisely in Cascais. On the 28th of September, 1878, during the festivities for the birthday of Prince D. Carlos, the Cidadela (Citadel) came to life in a way that only light can do.
On the other hand, given its geographic position, Cascais was also a pioneer in the introduction of lighthouses along the Portuguese coastline, with its lights contributing to the success of the Portuguese discoveries. Today, the light from these lighthouses reminds us of the connection of Cascais with the sea. During the festival, there are several pieces which give a voice to the people, letting them reflect on the public space, leading them to question their way of life".