This presentation is part of the programming scheduled for Templefest.
The woman known as Maria de Padilla was 14th century Spanish noblewoman who was the mistress to King Pedro of Castile. After her death, the King had his marriage annulled and Maria de Padilla named Queen. This ‘crowning in hell’ increased her notoriety among the people, most especially witches, who began to call upon her as a source of power, naming her the wife of the Devil, and patron of outcasts, of women, of divination and love magic, and more.
In Brazil her cult found new life and expression within the Afro-Diasporic traditions, earning her a unique place among the Pomba Giras, those female crossroads spirits of Quimbanda. Here as Dona Maria Padilha, she still reigns, a celebration of witch, of fire, of Woman. Is she merely a legend? The memory of a witch? A Demon? A Witch-Goddess?
Come celebrate the Queen of Hell, who flows through magic and love and laughter and music, lending her aide and power to those who call upon her. With song and laughter, through the intercession of Maria Padilha, may we recognize the power of our choice in the fire that burns at the crossroads of each moment!