Portugal is the western most country in Europe. It shares the Iberian peninsula with Spain. Even though they have some things in common, Portugal is very different that Spain in many ways. First Portuguese is the main language. Their culture and history is unique to their own country which is one of the oldest in Europe. Actually, besides Athens, Lisbon is the oldest city in Europe. It has had a long history of outsiders overtaking and ruling, like the Celts, the Romans, and the Moors. It established itself as an independent kingdom in 1143 and was ruled by kings until a revolution in 1910.

In the fifteenth century, a member of the Royal Family, Henry “the Navigator” put major effort into sea travel and opened up a school in Sagre which is the farthest southern tip of Portugal. Some call it “the end of the world”. He wanted to open up a trade route with Africa and India, as well as spread Catholocism. The school was established where men, from all over the world, came to  learn about ship building, map making and preparation for sea travel.  Chirstopher Columbus actually washed up at this shore after being shipwrecked. He stayed and learned about exploration. When he did not get the backing from Portugal, he received support from Spain. The rest is history.

From 1910 to 1972, it was ruled by repressive governments. At one time, it was considered the poorest country in Europe. In 1972 after a coup, it became a more legitimate, forward thinking country. It joined the EU in 1986, which gave it a place at the table and an opportunity for additional economic growth. Now the country is sought after for tourism and  investment in industry. Portugal is slightly smaller in size than Hungary or the U.S. state of Indiana. Since it spans from north to south, the weather in the north tends to be more rainy and the terrain more rugged, like Spain’s Galicia in the northwest corner of the Iberian Peninsula. The south can be arid and its climate  is mild in winter and very warm.

The regions revolve around the major cities. Lisbon is the most populated city, and is the capital. It sits in the middle of the country near the coast. Porto is in the north and can get temperatures that are a little more rainy and colder. The Duoro River is nearby and is the best place for wine in the country. The south comprises the Faro District and home to some of the most beautiful beaches in the world. The rock formations and terrain make the scenery breathtaking. (Wikipedia: Portugal)

A special thank you to Denis Barbas for his “Memories of Portugal”. He captures the magic in each shot! This video will inspire you to visit this amazing country. Be sure to check out Visit Portugal for the Official Travel Site.