Portugal Tourism Guide | Travel to Portugal | Portugal Hotels Holidays

Portugal, officially known as the Portuguese Republic, is located in South Western Europe. Studies done by archaeologists reveal that this country has been inhabited since prehistoric times. The inclination of the Portuguese towards waging war with neighbouring countries, in order to gain more land for itself began as early as the 1100’s. A few centuries later, Portugal would soon become a force to reckon with, as it held hands in Africa, Asia and South America. Today, Portugal is spoken of as a developed country, with the quality of life reportedly being quite good here.

The people of Portugal, come from many places. While the majority are Portuguese, with a Celtic touch, Romans, Germans, other Europeans, and quite a few Africans too have made this country their home. Lisbon is its capital and Portuguese is the official language spoken here. Amidst their conquests and wars with other nations, they made significant contributions to the arts too. The romantic and chivalrous nature of the Portuguese, was an added reason for the popularity of poetry. Luis de Camoes, and Fernando Pessoa are considered two important names in poetry. Modern names such as Jose Saramago, Almeida Garrett and Sophia Anderson are famous worldwide. Portuguese music is noted especially for the ‘fado’, which is a melancholic kind of music, usually played with the guitar. Painters and artists too were in plenty. Names like Nuno Goncalves and Jose Malhoa were 15th century artists. However, modernism gained a strong hold in Portugal, and gave rise to names like Amadeo de Souza- Cardosa and Almada Negreiros.

There is so much to delight a tourist here. The Portuguese pride in their culture, customs, and local flavours, is very evident wherever you go. Portugal can be divided into five regions- Lisbon, Porto and the north, Central Portugal,  Alentejo and the Algarve.

Lisbon – It is a city bathed in history, not only for its role as an important port but also for the many historical monuments found here. The Castelo of Sao Jorge, founded in the 12th century, with ten towers is one of the city’s hallmarks. The Portuguese, were famed for their different styles visible in churches and cathedrals. The Sao Roque church has a huge baroque chapel, while the Estrela Basilica, combines both Baroque and Neoclassical styles. A visit to Bairro Alto, which is home to the traditional folk music called Fado, is worth undertaking. The Gulbenkian Foundation, is a cultural centre and a museum situated in a park. One can see many paintings here, besides artefacts and jewellery. The Vasco da Gama Tower, gives one a great view of the city and other areas.  A boat ride on the river Tagus is worth a try, and there is even a bridge over the river, on which a huge statue of the Christ stands, overlooking the entire scene. The most symbolic monuments are located in Belem. The Torre de Belem, is a beautiful tower where prisoners were kept. The Padrao dos Descobrimentos (Monument of the Discoveries), pays a tribute to the greatest Portuguese explorers. Both these monuments are considered World Heritage Monuments. The Mosteiro dos Jeronimos, which is a monastery, is an outstanding architectural wonder. The nightlife in Lisbon, is also worth trying as there are many good restaurants and delicious cuisine to try. Near Lisbon, a 12th century castle and monastery can be visited at Palmela. A well-known pilgrimage shrine called the ‘Shrine at Fatima’’ is visited by many pilgrims from all over the world. The Mosteiro de Santa Maria is a World Heritage Site, and combines Gothic and Manueline architecture.

Porto and the north – Porto served as an important hub in the 15th century. The city built by the Romans, itself is a World Heritage Site. One can see many styles ranging from the Roman to the Neo Classic all over the city. The Se Fortress, with its huge towers can be seen from afar and was once symbolic of the Bishop’s power over people. The Torre dos Clerigos, is a distinct Baroque structure in style. The Church of Sao Francisco, is known for the gilded carvings, and rococo interiors. A trip here wouldn’t be complete without learning about the history of a famous wine- port. Do visit the Vinho do Porto manor house, and the attached museum.

Central Portugal – It is believed to have seen over 900 years of Portuguese history. There are many castles and old buildings to see. The Linhares da Beira is an imposing castle, worth visiting. The Romanesque parish church, which has three paintings by Vasco Fernandes, is quite famous. Marialva, used to be a fortress in the Middle Ages, and was inhabited from as early as 6 BC. Old narrow streets, Gothic doors, a 15th century tribunal and prison, and a 16th century church are some sights to see.

Alentejo, is important to the Portuguese, for it was here that many records, written on stone and mosaics, were discovered- each holding the key to the country’s culture. Evora, which has much of its old splendour, has many Roman temples, baths, and the famed Convent of Sao Francisco. It is a World Heritage site. The ruins of Pisoes, where 2000-year-old mosaics were found, is full of lovely Roman architecture, and says a lot about rural traditions here. Legends, old houses, castles, Roman touches and lot of history remains to meet the eye at Algarve. Algarve is a place loved by tourists for its coastline and sandy beaches. In Faro, visit the Afonso III square, which has 13th century significance. The Se Cathedral, with its Renaissance interiors is beautiful to see. The church of Misericordia and the Bishop’s palace should not be missed out. A priceless Roman collection is on display at the Infants D Henrique Museum. Seafood restaurants, shopping areas and other activities await you here. Lagos, which used to be a centre for slave trade, today has a 17th century fort, from where one can get a good view of the city.

Portugal, is certain to rejuvenate your senses in many ways, so get ready to pack your bags.

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