Welcome to Portugal — home of the Algarve, our favorite place on Planet Earth.
From Ponte de Lima to Sagres there is plenty to discover and be admirative of. Portugal never ceases to amaze us, and today we’ll tell you more about it. Please take a look at the list we’ve prepared below — and fall in love with this charming country, its culture, and its history.
Portugal is One of the Oldest Nations in Europe…
Portugal has had the same defined borders since 1139, making it one of the oldest nation-states in Europe. The country has a rich history, and its capital, Lisbon, is even older than Rome.
…And is part of the Oldest Alliance in the World
Portugal and England have the world’s oldest diplomatic alliance, dating back to the Treaty of Windsor in 1386. This alliance has withstood the test of time, remaining active for over 600 years.
The Astrolabe’s Improvement
While the astrolabe was originally developed by the Greeks, the Portuguese improved it significantly during the Age of Discovery. The mariner’s astrolabe, adapted for use at sea, helped Portuguese navigators find their latitude, revolutionizing oceanic navigation.
A Nation of Explorers
Portugal was at the forefront of the Age of Discovery, with explorers like Vasco da Gama, Ferdinand Magellan, and Prince Henry the Navigator changing the course of history. Their voyages helped map the world and established Portugal as a global maritime power.
The Portuguese Were the First to Reach Japan
In 1543, Portuguese explorers were the first Europeans to reach Japan, introducing firearms and Western culture to the country. This marked the beginning of a long history of trade and cultural exchange.
Influence on World Cuisine
Portugal had a significant impact on global cuisine. Popular foods like tempura (in Japan), piri-piri (in Africa), and even tea (in England, through Portugal’s trade routes) were introduced by the Portuguese.
The Portuguese Language is Spoken Worldwide
Portuguese is the sixth most spoken language in the World, with over 220 million native speakers. Besides Portugal, it’s the official language in countries like Brazil, Mozambique, Angola, and Cape Verde, among others.
Portugal is Home to Europe’s Oldest Bookstore
Located in Lisbon, Livraria Bertrand was founded in 1732 and holds the Guinness World Record as the world’s oldest operating bookstore. It’s a must-visit spot for book lovers when in Lisbon.
The “Harry Potter” Connection
J.K. Rowling lived in Porto while she was developing the concept for Harry Potter. The Livraria Lello bookstore in Porto, with its ornate staircase, is said to have inspired parts of Hogwarts’ design.
Portugal is The Largest Cork Producer in the World
Portugal is responsible for about 50% of the world’s cork supply. The cork industry extends beyond bottle stoppers to include insulation, fashion accessories, and sustainable building materials. Cork’s environmental benefits and versatility have drawn international attention.
The World’s Largest Indoor Saltwater Aquarium
The Lisbon Oceanarium is the largest indoor saltwater aquarium in the world, featuring over 8,000 marine creatures, including sharks, rays, and tropical fish. It’s one of Lisbon’s top attractions — and a perfect place to visit with kids.
The Longest Bridge in Europe is in Portugal
The Vasco da Gama Bridge in Lisbon spans 12.3 kilometers (7.6 miles), making it the longest bridge in Europe. It’s an impressive architectural feat that connects Lisbon to the southern region.
The Bone Chapel of Évora
In Évora, you can visit the Capela dos Ossos (Chapel of Bones), a macabre yet fascinating chapel decorated with the bones and skulls of over 5,000 monks. The chapel’s eerie motto: “We bones that are here await yours.”
The Legend of the Rooster of Barcelos
One of Portugal’s most famous symbols is the Rooster of Barcelos, representing good luck. The colorful rooster is based on a legend of a miraculous event that saved an innocent man’s life.
Portugal’s Azores Are Europe’s Secret Paradise
The Azores, a group of volcanic islands in the Atlantic, are part of Portugal and offer some of Europe’s most stunning landscapes, from crater lakes to lush green valleys. It’s a nature lover’s paradise. Really-really-amazing.
Portugal Was a Pioneer in Renewable Energy
In 2016, Portugal made headlines by running on renewable energy alone (wind, solar, and hydro) for four consecutive days. The country is a leader in sustainability efforts in Europe.
The Via Verde Toll System
Portugal was the first country in the world to implement an electronic toll collection system on its highways. Introduced in 1991, the Via Verde system allows drivers to pass through toll booths without stopping, thanks to a small electronic device in the car that automatically deducts the toll fee.
Prepaid SIM Card
The concept of the prepaid SIM card was first developed in Portugal by TMN (now MEO) in 1995. This innovation changed the telecommunications industry worldwide, allowing users to have mobile services without being tied to a contract.
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Portugal’s innovative spirit has made a lasting impact on the world. From maritime technology to culinary traditions, the contributions of Portuguese inventors, explorers, and thinkers continue to influence many aspects of modern life.
Visit Portugal and let it influence yours too!
In case you are visiting the Algarve, take a look at our hand-picked portfolio and book your stay with us!
