The São Brás de Alportel resident died on Saturday, 22 August, at the age of 113 years and eight months.

Her death was announced by the Santa Casa da Misericórdia de São Brás de Alportel, where she had lived for around 15 years.

Maria da Conceição was born on 22 December 1912 in São Brás de Alportel and spent her entire life in the Algarve town. She was born two years before São Brás de Alportel officially became a municipality in 1914.

She had been recognised as Portugal's oldest person since 20 August 2023, holding the distinction for almost exactly three years.

Over her long life, Maria da Conceição witnessed more than a century of change in Portugal and around the world. Born before the First World War, she lived through both World Wars, decades of the Estado Novo regime and the Carnation Revolution in 1974.

In São Brás de Alportel, she was affectionately known as the "Rainha" (Queen) and "tia-menina".

She remained known for her sense of humour and lucidity well into old age. When celebrating her 113th birthday in December last year, she shared a simple piece of advice for younger generations: not to work too much, joking that too much work wears out the body.

Her 113th birthday was celebrated at the care home with members of the local community, staff and representatives of local organisations.

The Santa Casa da Misericórdia paid tribute to Maria da Conceição following her death and thanked the carers, doctors and nurses who had looked after her.

Her funeral ceremonies are due to take place at the beginning of this week at the Church of São Sebastião in São Brás de Alportel.