Neighboring Spain and bordered by the Atlantic Ocean, Portugal has long been renowned for its extraordinary maritime economy. People of conquerors and sailors, it can indeed boast of having been one of the richest nations in the world ! Its imports of all kinds across continents, such as gold from Brazil or spices from India raised it at the time to the rank of a key economic player. During your stay, you will not fail to be challenged by a few magnificent symbolic remains recounting this often dynamic and sometimes even tumultuous history of Portugal!
History of Portugal
Summarizing the history of Portugal in a few words is complex: however, we share with you some avenues of understanding in order to fuel your reflection on this country, which could not be more amazing! The monuments, preserved museums and customs bear witness to this past oscillating between conquests and glory as well as between invasions and decadence!
Antiquity
Lusitania, an imperial Roman province under Augustus, covers most of Portugal. The Lusitanians were made up of multiple peoples settled in the most austere regions of the country. The Celts were also well integrated in the south of the nation. The trade are intense at the time with the Greeks, Phoenicians and Carthaginians. The Romans occupy the territory until the XNUMXth century. Barbarian invasions ensue and the country is finally conquered by the Arabs beginning of the XNUMXth century.
The Middle Age
The Spanish reconquest saw the Christian kings of Asturias drive out Muslim rule from the country and occupy Lisbon. The future king of Portugal will also be the son of Henri de Bourgogne. The latter had been proclaimed count of several provinces following his exploits of war against the Arab people. The Burgundy dynasty reigns then all over the country!
The conquest of Lisbon
The Renaissance
The colonial empire is at its peak in the XNUMXth and XNUMXth centuries. Portugal becomes a Spanish province and undergoes a difficult period which will lead to a popular rebellion causing the Spaniards to flee the territory. The country then experiences a prosperous period and benefits from the wealth of its Brazilian colony.
The XNUMXth century
L'brazilian independence is recognized at the beginning of the century. Thanks to the support of the English and despite the attempts at revolution, power remains somehow in the hands of the royal family. The end of the XNUMXth century marked the end of the Portuguese colonies and the onset of significant economic problems. The monarchy is dying out also with the murders of the king and the crown prince and leaves room for the revolution.
The XNUMXth century
It was at the beginning of the 1910th century, in XNUMX, that the Portugal becomes a republic. Unrest ensued and a military coup thwarted the ambitious plans of the time until the end of the First World War. The weakened Republic will then be reestablished, but still subject to numerous putsch. The establishment of a fascist regime goes hand in hand with Oscar Carmona's seizure of power in 1928. The dictatorship is abolished and in 1974 Portugal joins the European Union in 1986.
The culture of Portugal
Portuguese is proud of its colorful culture ! Linked in large part to the history of Portugal and its location, the cultural heritage of one of the oldest countries in Europe thrills fans of the genre and dazzles novices. Let yourself be carried away by the cultural discovery of Portugal and learn more about this amazing country!
Le Fado
This world music is strong in emotions ! Nostalgic and deep, it transports you to a special and intense universe. Born in the XNUMXth century from popular songs, it reflects at the time the complex feeling of " Saudade »Characterized by a desire for elsewhere, mixed with hope and melancholy. An evening of listening to Fado in Lisbon's neighborhoods is a must!
Les Azulejos
They are absolutely everywhere, expertly color your Portuguese walks and are an integral part of the culture and history of Portugal. All of this small earthenware tiles decorate and tell the story of Portugal. Often dedicated to the maritime glory of the country, they also transport you to its oldest traditions, its particular customs and its breathtaking landscapes.
Azulejos on a facade
Religion
With a predominantly Catholic population, religion occupies an important role both in the history of Portugal and in its daily life in the XNUMXst century. The religious fervor is firmly rooted in Portuguese tradition and is the source of many local festivities sometimes surprising by their pomp. Be sure to attend one of these prestigious celebrations. A unique moment to immerse yourself in Portuguese reality!
The kitchen
Portuguese gastronomy seduces more than one amateur as the local and typical products are of exceptional quality. The seafood obviously have the coast in this country bordered by the ocean. The economy of Portugal, based largely on agriculture, allows tasty tasting of new preparations from small farms. Discover Portugal while savoring its traditional kitchen is an option not to be missed!
Cream's pastry
The geography of Portugal
Located at the end of the eastern continent, this rectangular piece of land is home to a population of over 10 million inhabitants. Its territory is delimited by the ocean and by a border land with Spain over 1 kilometers. Its coastline of nearly 200 kilometers offers sumptuous beaches. With his mild climate, it allows you to roam its wonderful and diverse lands in any season.
Forests and mountains
Forests still cover a beautiful part of the country. In the center of the country, these are adorned mainly with pines and eucalyptus. These essences can also catch fire very quickly. Portugal is the victim of numerous forest fires, be vigilant about your behavior!
The less populated mountains are full of treasures. The Serra da Estrala, mountain in the center of the country, offers you for example a climax near 2 meters and a divine panorama. Do not hesitate to spend several days there and soak up this little-known place with deep-rooted traditions.
Peneda-Gerês National Park
Natural parks
Many natural parks dot the country. These countless protected areas can no longer be counted and bear witness to the Portuguese's concern for Mother Nature. The variety of flora and fauna is unique there. Made up of lakes, waterfalls, mountains, forests, marshes, beaches or even rivers, they also preserve the traditional local life. Do not hesitate to venture there to experience a unique connection with this generous and welcoming nature!
The volcanic archipelagos
Do not hesitate to move away from the mainland to visit beautiful places and sometimes even out of time. Some small islands await you along the coast, they are easy to access and explore without difficulty. The two fantastic and volcanic archipelagos What are Madeira, 500 kilometers from the coast, and the Azores, 1 kilometers from Lisbon, await you in the middle of the Atlantic Ocean… to take you into their magical nature!
Hiking in Madeira
Want to discover Portugal?
Did these few, unpretentious information on the history of Portugal make your mouth water? If you want to consider an exceptional trip to Portugal, do not hesitate to consult our advice for travelers and our various articles devoted to both the north and the south of the country!
