Portugal CulturePortugal culture is composed by a whole set of characteristics which forms the personality of the country, like its ancient history, the religious people, local traditions, achievements and much more.
History of PortugalPortugal is one of the oldest countries in all Europe. It had its independence in 1143. Before that, Portugal was a county of Leão and Castela Kingdom, named Portucale. This county was located where the city of Guimarâes is now and that's why is named the city cradle (of the country).
At that time, the Moors threatened almost all the Iberian Peninsula. Because of that, after Portugal being independent, the King Afonso Henriques could expand the territory after winning several battles against the Moors. The last territory to conquer was the Algarve in 1249, one century after. Nevertheless it is possible to find many traces of people older than the Nationality like the Celtic, Phoenician, Roman, Lusitanian, etc.
Portugal FactsSome of the most relevant facts of the Portugal’s history are the Discoveries period, the Restoration of Independence from Spanish domain, the big Earthquake of 1755, the founding of the Republic ending the Monarchic regime, the Revolution of the Carnations initiating a Democratic Regime ending the Fascism, the access to EEC and the adoption of new currency, the Euro.
Gastronomy and WinesThe Portuguese Gastronomy is very diverse and an important part of Portugal Culture. The most well-known typical dishes include the dry and salted codfish. But for sure, you can find in Portugal food many fantastic typical receipts with other ingredients. In the coast you will find more the seafood and fish and in the interior and north of Portugal you have more meat dishes. You won’t be disappointed with the typical food of the country.
Portugal has a very old tradition in Wine production. The most known are the Port Wines produced in the beautiful region of Douro. But today Portugal has wine production in all the country. There are special regions marked for their quality. The more famous are Douro, Alentejo, Dão and Peninsula of Setúbal. If you are a Wine appreciator you will find the best Portuguese wine as good as the best International wines, although not so famous. Fado
You will find the Portuguese, pleasant, nice, willing to help, most of them English spoken, very religious and a bit nostalgic. This is reflected in the music of Fado, an old traditional musical style made famous internationally by Amália Rodrigues singer. Places to Visit
Portugal culture is everywhere in the country which has many places to visit, but some of them you must not miss. If you have the opportunity visit:
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