The Miracle of the Roses.

One of the most popular Portuguese Queens was Isabel of Aragon (also known as Saint Queen Isabel), beloved wife of King Dinis. She's the protagonist of this famous legend, called The Miracle of the Roses.

She came to Portugal when she was twelve years old to marry the king. She was of a legendary beauty and serenity and enjoyed being helpful towards people in need. She was also very religious, modest and was always willing to protect everyone from misery.

One day, the Queen went out, as she usually did, to distribute gold and silver to the poor. King Dinis became very suspicious about her daily visits to the village and started to think that it was a waste of money and was determined to put an end to it.

He angrily decided to confront the Queen:

-       Where are you going, my Lady?

-       To the convent, my Lord!

-       And what are you hiding on your lap?

The Queen hesitated before answering:

-       Those are roses, my Lord! For the convent!

-       Roses, my Queen?  He became really angry - Roses in January?

        Are you trying to deceive me, my Queen?

Smoothly, Queen Isabel uncovered her lap and said:

-       My Lord, the Queen of Portugal doesn't lie!

        And everyone saw beautiful snowy roses falling from her lap, where there would only be silver and gold coins