🇵🇹 Portugal
Portugal is a country located on the west coast of the Iberian Peninsula in southwestern Europe. It is bordered by Spain to the east and north and the Atlantic Ocean to the west and south. The capital and largest city is Lisbon. The official language is Portuguese.
Portugal has a long and rich history dating back to the 12th century, when it was founded as an independent kingdom. During the 15th and 16th centuries, Portugal was a major colonial power and established a global empire that included territories in South America, Africa, and Asia. The country's explorers, such as Vasco da Gama and Ferdinand Magellan, played an important role in the Age of Discovery and the opening of trade routes around the world.
In the 18th century, Portugal experienced economic and political decline, and its colonies gradually gained independence. In 1910, the monarchy was overthrown and a republic was established.
During the 20th century, Portugal underwent significant political and social changes. The country was neutral during World War II, but suffered from economic and political instability in the post-war period. In 1974, a peaceful revolution brought an end to the authoritarian regime and Portugal transitioned to a democratic system of government.
Today, Portugal is a developed country with a strong economy and well-developed infrastructure. The country is known for its historic cities, beautiful beaches, delicious cuisine, and its wine production, particularly the Port Wine. The country has also been recognized for its warm hospitality and it's a popular tourist destination. Its rich history is reflected in its many landmarks and monuments, including the Belem Tower, the Monastery of Jeronimos and the Sintra Palace.
Portugal Popular Food
#Bacalhau (salt Cod) #Cozido #Cataplana #Francesinha #Portuguese Sardines #Pastel De Nata #Port Wine
Portugal Travel Taboo
Portugal is a relatively open and liberal country, and there are not many things that are considered taboo when it comes to travel there. However, there are a few things to keep in mind when visiting:
- Drug use: Possession, use, and distribution of drugs, including marijuana, are illegal in Portugal. Penalties for drug offenses can be severe and it is important to be aware of local laws and customs.
- Prostitution: Prostitution is decriminalized in Portugal, but it is not regulated. However, it's important to know that it is illegal to solicit sex on the street, and most sex-related services are only allowed in certain areas, known as "tolerance zones".
- Tolerance and Respect: Visitors should always be respectful of local customs and traditions, and avoid offending the locals, especially when it comes to sensitive issues such as religion.
- Political issues: Visitors should be mindful of the country's political situation, especially when it comes to issues related to immigration, the EU, and Iberian relations.
- Respect for Monuments and historic sites: Visitors should be respectful when visiting historical sites and monuments, especially when they are still considered as sacred places.
- Be mindful of the dress code: Visitors should be aware that in some places, such as churches, monasteries and other religious sites, you may be required to dress appropriately.
- Overall, Portugal is a welcoming country for tourists, and visitors should use common sense and be mindful of local laws and customs. As a general rule, it's always a good idea to be aware of and respectful of local customs and traditions when traveling, and to treat others as you would like to be treated.
Portugal Local Food
Portugal is known for its delicious and diverse cuisine that has been influenced by its history and various cultural influences. Some popular local dishes include:
- Bacalhau (salt Cod): a traditional dish made with salt cod, potatoes, and onions, it can be prepared in many different ways and is considered a national dish.
- Cozido: a traditional stew made with a variety of meats, beans, and vegetables, it's a hearty and comforting dish.
- Cataplana: a traditional seafood dish made with clams, shrimp, and sausage, cooked in a copper pot and often served with rice.
- Francesinha: a sandwich made with ham, linguiça, steak, and cheese, topped with an egg and a spicy tomato and beer sauce.
- Portuguese Sardines: They're usually grilled or fried and often served with potatoes, vegetables, or rice.
- Pastel De Nata: a traditional Portuguese custard tart that is a popular pastry throughout the country
- Port Wine: a fortified wine that is produced in the Douro Valley region of northern Portugal, it is known for its rich, sweet flavor and can be enjoyed as a dessert wine or aperitif.
Portugal Festiaval
Portugal is a country with a rich cultural heritage and a wide variety of festivals and events that take place throughout the year. Some popular festivals include:
- The Festa de São João in Porto: This festival takes place on the night of June 23rd, and it's one of the most popular festivals in Portugal. The city of Porto becomes lively with traditional music, fireworks, and bonfires, and everyone is wearing traditional clothing.
- The Festas de Lisboa: These are a series of festivals that take place in the capital city of Lisbon, in June, it features music, dance, and fireworks, as well as food and drink.
- The Festa de Santo António in Lisbon: This festival takes place on June 13th, it's also known as the Festival of Saint Anthony and is celebrated in honor of the patron saint of Lisbon. It features parades, live music, and traditional food and drink.
- The Festa do Avante: This is a political festival of the Portuguese Communist Party and the largest annual political gathering in the country, it takes place in September, it features concerts, speeches, and political rallies.
- The Medronho festival: This festival takes place in October and celebrates the harvest of the medronho fruit, which is used to make a strong spirit. The festival features traditional music, dancing, and food and drink.
- The Festivals of the Holy Spirit: These festivals take place in the Azores and Madeira islands, they're known for their beautiful floats and costumes, and traditional music and dance.
- These are some of the festivals and events that take place in Portugal, but there are many more, visitors can find something that interests them and experience the local culture. Visitors can also expect a lot of religious and cultural festivals throughout the year, particularly in the smaller towns and villages.
Portugal History
Portugal is a country located on the west coast of the Iberian Peninsula in southwestern Europe. The history of Portugal dates back to the pre-Roman era, with the Celts and Lusitanians as the main indigenous peoples. In the 12th century, Portugal became an independent kingdom under the rule of King Afonso Henriques, and throughout the next centuries, it established itself as a colonial power and maritime nation.
- In the 15th and 16th centuries, Portugal established a global empire that included territories in South America, Africa, and Asia, through explorers such as Vasco da Gama and Ferdinand Magellan, played an important role in the Age of Discovery and the opening of trade routes around the world. The Portuguese empire brought a significant wealth and power to the country, and it was considered as one of the most powerful nations in the world.
- In the 18th century, Portugal experienced economic and political decline and its colonies gradually gained independence. In 1910, the monarchy was overthrown and a republic was established. During the 20th century, Portugal underwent significant political and social changes. The country was neutral during World War II but suffered from economic and political instability in the post-war period.
- In 1974, a peaceful revolution brought an end to the authoritarian regime and Portugal transitioned to a democratic system of government. Portugal joined the European Union in 1986 and has since undergone economic modernization and liberalization. Today, Portugal is considered a developed country with a strong economy and well-developed infrastructure. The country's history has played an important role in shaping its identity, particularly in terms of its global empire and maritime legacy, which continues to influence its culture, economy, and society.