Population
10,213,651 (2019)
Official Language
Portuguese.
Language
96% of residents speak Portuguese . The majority converse in diverse dialects, including Azorean, Algarvio, Alentejo, Madeiran and more. The remaining 4% comprise speakers of Spanish, Arabic, Galician, Mirandese, Calo (a Gypsy language) and Chinese.
People
The majority of the population identifies as Portuguese. There is a significant migrant community, the majority of whom hail from Brazil.
Religion
Reflecting a rich cultural tapestry, 85% of the Portuguese population are Catholic. There are also vibrant Jewish and Muslim communities.
National Holiday
June 10th marks the Camoes Festival, commemorating the death of the revered poet, Luís de Camões, in 1580.
Holiday Schedule
Portugal's festive calendar includes celebrations such as New Year's Day, Easter, the Anniversary of the Carnation Revolution on April 25th and Labour Day on May 1st. St. Anthony's celebration in Lisbon on June 13th, characterized by sardine grilling and accordion music. It is a joyful highlight. The year concludes with Christmas festivities on December 25th.
History of Portugal
Ancient Roots: Celts and Romans
Portugal's rich history began with Celts as its first inhabitants, followed by a transformative Roman invasion in the third century BC. The Romans left an indelible mark, constructing roads, buildings, and a vibrant civilization, evidenced by the numerous ruins and artifacts that still dot the Portuguese landscape.
Moorish Influence and Independence
In 711 AD, Moors from North Africa asserted control over southern Portugal. However, the north resisted, aligning itself with the Kingdom of Leon in the early 10th century. The tussle for power escalated when Dona Teresa, granted Portugal by the King of Leon, faced internal strife over her marriage. In 1140, her son, Dom Alfonso Henriques, led a rebellion, securing Portugal's independence. Alfonso, now King, embarked on a mission to reclaim territory from the Moors, culminating in the 1147 capture of Lisbon and subsequent expansions south of the River Tagus.
Papal Recognition and the Black Death
By 1179, Alfonso's efforts were recognised by the Papal diplomats. Portugal thrived with robust trade through its port but faced adversity with the mid-14th century Black Death. The late 14th century witnessed internal conflict, triggered by King Fernando's death and his daughter's association with Castille. Fearing loss of independence, Portugal rebelled, forging an alliance with England in 1386.
The Age of Exploration
The early 15th century marked a pivotal era as Portuguese navigators, notably Prince Henry the Navigator, embarked on explorations. Ceuta fell in 1415, followed by the acquisition of Madeira in 1419 and The Azores in 1427. Tangiers joined the Portuguese realm in 1471. By 1488, Bartolomeu Dias achieved a historic feat, rounding the Cape of Good Hope, opening new maritime frontiers for Portugal.
Global Dominion and Internal Strife
As Portugal's empire expanded across Brazil, Goa, Sao Tome, and Malacca, its global influence surged. However, tensions simmered at home, notably with Spain, leading to a prolonged struggle for recognition of Portuguese independence. The Treaty of Lisbon in 1668 finally secured Spain's acknowledgement, but economic challenges loomed. The Dutch wrested control of the lucrative spice trade, diminishing Portugal's once-dominant position.
Trials of the 19th Century
The early 19th century brought fresh challenges as France invaded Portugal, compelling British intervention to safeguard Portuguese territory. Civil unrest brewed internally, sparking rebellions against the established order. Divergent views on governance, with some favoring a robust monarchy, escalated into a full-fledged civil war from 1846 to 1847. While the rest of the world embraced the Industrial Revolution, Portugal clung to its agrarian roots, grappling with economic vulnerabilities.
The Republic Emerges
As the 19th century drew to a close, discontent with the monarchy fueled rebellions, culminating in a republican revolution in 1910. The king sought refuge in the UK, but the anticipated improvements in living standards failed to materialize. In 1926, the military seized power, establishing a form of dictatorship characterized by censorship and a government police force. Economic conditions saw improvement under this regime.
The Carnation Revolution and Democratic Dawn
In a dramatic turn of events in 1974, the military staged a coup, sparking the Carnation Revolution, named for the red and white carnations worn in support. This upheaval heralded the restoration of democracy in Portugal. The nation embraced democracy, leading to its integration into the European Union in 1986. In 1999, Portugal adopted the Euro, marking its commitment to a shared European economic identity.
Policy in Portugal
Portugal operates as a parliamentary democracy, with the 230-member parliament (Assembleia da Republica) wielding legislative power. Parliamentarians are elected for four-year terms. While the President of the Republic is elected nationally for five years, executive authority rests with the Prime Minister, chosen by the president and typically aligned with the parliamentary majority.
Influential Personalities
Amalia Rodrigues (1920-1999): Renowned fado singer and actress, Rodrigues left an indelible mark on Portuguese culture. Following her passing on October 6, 1999, the nation observed three days of national mourning.
Fernando Pessoa (1888-1935): A celebrated poet, writer, and philosopher, Pessoa is hailed as a preeminent figure in Portuguese-language literature.
Fernao de Magalhaes (1480-1521): Magellan, symbolizing the triumphs of Portuguese navigators, achieved the first-ever circumnavigation of the Earth, completed in 1522.
Maria Elena Vieira da Silva (1908-1992): A prominent painter and ceramist, Vieira da Silva led the European Lyrical Abstraction movement of art in the 1950s.
Baruch Spinoza (1632-1677): Born into a Jewish family of Portuguese origin in Amsterdam, Spinoza, often dubbed the "prince of philosophers," embodies the historical dispersion of Portuguese Jewish communities in the late Middle Ages.
Cristiano Ronaldo (born 1985): A football luminary born in Madeira, Ronaldo has carved out a highly successful career.
Aristides de Sousa Mendes (1885-1954): As Portugal's consul in Bordeaux in 1940, Mendes defied government orders by issuing almost 30,000 visas to refugees within weeks, displaying exceptional humanitarianism.
Etiquette
Gratuity Guidelines: Tipping is discretionary in Portugal. For drivers, a suggested tip ranges from 1 to 3 Euros per person. Guides may receive 5 Euros per person for half-day tours and between 7 and 10 Euros for full-day excursions. In restaurants, a customary tip is around 10% of the bill.
Bullfighting Awareness: Bullfighting is a prevalent activity from spring to late summer, resembling the Spanish tradition but without the bull being killed. Though controversial, being aware of its practice allows visitors to prepare for its presence in the cultural landscape.
Shopping
It's imperative to leave a little room in your luggage for Portuguese souvenirs. Apart from exquisite pottery, ceramics and porcelain - we highly recommend Vista Alegre, a renowned brand, if you're after the real deal - Portugal boasts embroidery, lace, linen, and rugs, all of which are delightful souvenirs. Immerse yourself in Portugal's love for decorative tiles too. Whether adorned with traditional blue and white patterns or vibrant designs, these tiles are a piece of Portuguese culture.
Food in Portugal
Portuguese home-cooking centres around fish dishes and cod (bacalhau) takes centre stage. Explore a variety of preparations, from bacalhau cozido to bacalhau à gomes de sá. Each dish showcases the versatility of this beloved ingredient, including soups and broths such as arroz de marisco, and cataplana stew, Portugal's version of paella. If you have a sweet tooth, make sure to save room for cheeses like queijo da Serra or Rabaçal. For sweet cravings, pastries like toucinho do céu, Papo de anjo, and the iconic pastel de nata are must-tries.
Wine in Portugal
Portugal's wine culture is diverse. Enjoy the lightness of vinho verde in the north or savour the robustness of Dao's red wine. Delight in reguengos from Alentejo or savour muscatel as a sweet wine aperitif. The iconic Port wine, hailing from the Alto Douro region, is a Portuguese masterpiece. From Tawny to Ruby, White Port to Vintage, each variety offers a distinct experience. Don't miss the chance to taste the Rolls Royce of ports, the Vintage.
Embark on a sensory journey through Portugal's markets, kitchens, and vineyards to fully appreciate the country's culinary and artistic offerings.
