This tale dates back to the 14th Century and like all legends the details were dependind on who's doing the telling. Here's our version:
A pilgrim was passing through the village of barcelos in Portugal who were strongly accused of theft. This was a serious charge for which a guilty verdict meant certain death.
The pilgrim was brought before the town's judge, who was about to eat a roast cockerel for dinner. Feeling vulnerable in a strange village and knowing what his sorry fate might be, the pilgrim pleaded:
"If I am innocent, may that cockerel get up and crow!"
No sooner had he spoken than the cockerel got up and crowed heartily (well it is a legend!). With that, the pilgrim was pardoned and was allowed to go on his way. Ever since, the Bracelos Cockerel has been a symbol of faith, justice and good fortune.
Source: Nandos
