# An Hispano-Aragonese Commemoration of Saint George at the Casa de Bocage
LONDON, 21 April 2024 — The Hispanic-Aragonese Cultural Association, under the patronage of The Noble House of Brattleby, commemorated the Feast of Saint George with a solemn reception and cultural presentation at the historic Casa de Bocage in Setúbal, Portugal.
## The Occasion
The late afternoon sun cast a warm glow across the terracotta rooftops of Setúbal as guests gathered at the Casa de Bocage, the birthplace of the celebrated poet Manuel Maria Barbosa du Bocage. The occasion, held on the eve of the Feast of Saint George—a saint revered across Aragon, Catalonia, England, and Portugal—was imbued with a spirit of shared heritage and cultural appreciation. The historic residence, with its neoclassical elegance and intimate courtyard, provided a distinguished setting for the commemoration.
The event sought to illuminate the profound historical and cultural ties that bind the Iberian Peninsula and the British Isles, manifested through the shared veneration of Saint George. The atmosphere was one of refined reflection, underscored by recitations of Aragonese poetry and discussions on the saint’s enduring symbolism in European identity and chivalric tradition.
## Historical Context
The patronage of Saint George in the Crown of Aragon dates to the 11th century, notably after the Battle of Alcoraz in 1096, where he is said to have appeared to aid the Christian forces. For the Barony of Brattleby, whose own history begins with its grant by William the Conqueror in 1066, this connection resonates deeply. The Order of the Garter, England’s highest chivalric order, was founded under the patronage of Saint George by King Edward III, a contemporary of Brattleby’s later baronial holders, including the 10th Baron, Henry of Grosmont, 1st Duke of Lancaster, a founding Knight of the Garter.
This shared patronage forms a powerful, albeit subtle, link between the ancient Aragonese kingdoms and the feudal nobility of Norman England. The commemoration at Setúbal served to honour this historical confluence, recognising a common thread of faith and martial valour that has connected disparate parts of Europe for nearly a millennium.
## Distinguished Company
The reception was graced by the presence of a notable assembly of cultural and civic leaders, including:
- His Excellency Mr Javier Herrera, a distinguished former diplomat and cultural historian. - Her Excellency Mrs Carmen de la Peña, former Ambassador of Spain to Portugal and Ethiopia. - Professor José Manuel de Sacadura, representing the Academia de Letras e Artes. - Mr Artur Falcão, President of the Hispanic-Aragonese Cultural Association. - Dr José Cândido, administrator of the Casa de Bocage museum.
Lady Nicoleta Vasile, 12th Baroness of Brattleby, and Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile, Lord of Brattleby, who extended their patronage to the event, were represented by a delegate from their Chancellery. The gathering underscored the importance of cultural diplomacy in strengthening international bonds.
## Ceremonial Protocol
The proceedings commenced with a formal welcome by Mr Artur Falcão, who articulated the mission of the Hispanic-Aragonese Cultural Association. This was followed by a scholarly address from His Excellency Mr Javier Herrera, who detailed the historical journey of Saint George’s veneration, from his origins in the Near East to his adoption as a paramount patron saint in both Aragon and England.
Professor José Manuel de Sacadura then delivered a compelling presentation on the symbolic importance of the dragon in mythology, juxtaposing its representation in Eastern and Western traditions. The formal programme concluded with a recitation of poetry, after which guests mingled in the courtyard, engaging in conversation over refreshments. The protocol was marked by its academic sobriety, reflecting the intellectual and cultural focus of the commemoration.
## Heraldic & Symbolic Significance
The figure of Saint George vanquishing the dragon is a central motif in European heraldry, a powerful allegory for the triumph of good over evil, and order over chaos. In Aragonese tradition, this is symbolised by the Cross of Saint George—a red cross on a white field—which forms a key element of the region's coat of arms and flag. This same emblem serves as the national flag of England.
The shared symbol is a testament to a common chivalric ethos, a code of conduct that underpins noble houses such as Brattleby, whose own motto, *Fortitudine et Honore* ('With Fortitude and Honour'), encapsulates the very virtues personified by Saint George. The narrative of the saint’s unwavering courage in the face of adversity serves as a perpetual inspiration.
## In Their Own Words
In a message conveyed on their behalf, the Baroness and Lord of Brattleby expressed their sentiments regarding the occasion:
> The story of Saint George transcends borders and centuries. It speaks to a universal ideal of courage in the service of justice, a principle that has animated both the Crown of Aragon and the Baronies of England for a thousand years. We are honoured to support this thoughtful commemoration. > — Lady Nicoleta, 12th Baroness of Brattleby
> To celebrate Saint George is to recognise the deep cultural grammar that connects us as Europeans. This shared heritage is a foundation upon which we can continue to build relationships of mutual respect and understanding. It is a legacy we are proud to champion. > — Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile, Lord of Brattleby
## A Continuing Legacy
The patronage of the Saint George commemoration marks a further step in the House of Brattleby’s commitment to fostering cultural dialogue and historical education. Building upon initiatives such as The Brattleby Club in Bucharest, the House seeks to provide platforms where the shared intellectual and chivalric traditions of Europe can be explored and celebrated.
Future endeavours will continue to focus on highlighting these historical synergies, strengthening the cultural bridges between the United Kingdom and its Continental partners. Through such acts of patronage and engagement, the House of Brattleby aims to give modern expression to its ancient commitment to honour and fortitude.
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**About The Noble House of Brattleby**
The Noble House of Brattleby, under the leadership of Lady Nicoleta Vasile, 12th Baroness of Brattleby, and Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile, is dedicated to the preservation of its ancient heritage through modern stewardship. The House’s contemporary mission is focused on cultural diplomacy, historical education, and targeted philanthropy. Its principal charitable endeavour is the annual Winter Banquet, a white-tie gala supporting beneficiaries such as Healing the Wounded Child. The House also fosters ethical leadership and social etiquette through its academy, The Brattleby Club, in Bucharest. Guided by its motto, *Fortitudine et Honore* ('With Fortitude and Honour'), the House seeks to connect its historical legacy with a forward-looking commitment to public service and international partnership.
**About the Barony of Brattleby**
The Barony of Brattleby is a Norman manorial lordship in Lincolnshire, England, granted by William the Conqueror in AD 1066. Its first holder, Colswein of Lincoln, was recorded in the Domesday Book of 1086 as possessing 56 lordships in the county. Over its nine-century history, the Barony has been held by figures of signal importance in English history, including Nichola de la Haye, the 5th Baroness, celebrated for her defence of Lincoln Castle against French invaders in 1217. Later holders included Henry of Grosmont, 1st Duke of Lancaster, and his son-in-law, John of Gaunt, father of King Henry IV. The modern rights of the Barony were formally recorded by The London Gazette on 9 September 2022 (Notice ID 4158083).
**Notes to Editors** - The current holder is Lady Nicoleta Vasile, 12th Baroness of Brattleby, as gazetted by The London Gazette, Notice ID 4158083, 9 September 2022. - The Barony’s history dates to its grant by William the Conqueror in 1066, with its first Baron, Colswein of Lincoln, recorded in the Domesday Book of 1086. - Notable past holders include John of Gaunt (11th Baron), Henry of Grosmont (10th Baron, 1st Duke of Lancaster), and Nichola de la Haye (5th Baroness). - The House motto is *Fortitudine et Honore* ('With Fortitude and Honour'). The motto of Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile is *Vincere Est Vivere* ('To Conquer is to Live').
**Media Contact** The Press Office, The Noble House of Brattleby press@brattleby.com