The sun-kissed, vibrant country is more than we know about it. Portugal has given us barbecued chicken, Port Wine and Cristiano Ronaldo. Portugal has its own way of telling stories, and there are so many of them that we often overlook the hidden, interesting side of Portugal. If you are visiting this marvelous country, or have plans to do so, we have something for you. In this blog, we are covering 25 interesting facts about Portugal that you probably haven’t heard of.
1 – Lisbon is older than Rome
Did you know that Lisbon is one of the oldest cities in Europe? It has been continuously inhabited since 1200 BC. This means Lisbon has a history of more than 3000 years, which makes it older than Rome. This might come as a surprise, especially to Roman Empire admirers, but Lisbon is pretty old.
2 – The Portuguese Flag is more symbolic than you think
Each and every inch of the Portuguese flag has a meaning that many people are not aware of. It’s not just made up of colors, but has a hidden meaning behind it. The green color in the flag represents hope for the future. The red color in the flag represents bloodshed for the country’s independence. The coat of arms, which occupies the centre of the flag, represents Portugal’s victory over the Moors. So next time you see the flag, know what it stands for.
3 – The city of Porto inspires the country’s name
We all know the City of Porto, located in Portugal, which also happens to be its second-largest city. But did you know it was the Porto that inspired the name Portugal? The Latin Name Portus Cale eventually evolved into Portugal. Porto still remains as a hotspot of culture and cuisine in Portugal.
4 – Lisbon had the longest bridge in Europe
It was the Vasco da Gama Bridge that crossed the Tagus River estuary in Lisbon, the longest one in Europe. It held the title till 2018. The length of the bridge was 12 kilometers across the Tagus River. It saved commuters time in Lisbon. If you are visiting the city, then don’t forget to visit the bridge for breathtaking views.
5 – Portugal is a Sunny country
Portugal is one of the sunniest countries in Europe. It is estimated that some parts of Portugal see up to 300 sunny days. This makes Portugal perfect for sunny strolls, outdoor adventures, and beach outings. If you are visiting Portugal, do not forget to pack some sunscreen lotion.
6 – World’s oldest bookshop
Lisbon is home to the world’s oldest bookshop. It goes by the name of Livraria Bertrand. Bibliophiles, this is for you: explore a bookshop that was established in 1732. In 1755, the bookshop was damaged by a massive earthquake, but was rebuilt and operates to this day. It’s a piece of history.
7 – Europe’s Oldest University
Portugal is also home to Europe’s oldest University. The University of Coimbra was founded in 1290, and remains one of the most prestigious institutions of Portugal. The university is also home to a stunning library, Biblioteca Joanina, which is home to many ancient books and is built in Baroque-style decor.
8 – Europe’s Westernmost Point
Cabo Da Roca, which is located in Sintra, Portugal, is the Westernmost point of Europe. The point has rugged cliffs, oceanfront views, and is a picture-perfect location for travellers. If you are visiting this part of Portugal, it’s a must-visit spot.
9 – Soccer isn’t just a game in Portugal
To Portuguese people, soccer is not just a sport; it is a way of life. Soccer is part of everyday life in Portugal, and youngsters are crazy about it. Portugal has given the world legendary players like Cristiano Ronaldo. The energy in soccer matches in Portugal is electric and on a new level.
10 – The Last King of Portugal reigned only for 20 Minutes
In 1908, Crown Prince Luís Filipe became king for only 20 minutes, after the assassination of his father, King Carlos I. Unfortunately, Luís Filipe succumbed to injuries sustained in the attack, making him the shortest-reigning king of Portugal.
11 – The country of Tiles
Portugal is always full of surprises, and is also known by the name of the Country of Tiles. You don’t have to figure this one out if you have taken a walk on its streets. Traditional azulejos, which are colorful ceramic tiles, adorn the streets of Portugal, Houses, and even restaurants with intricate patterns. If you are visiting Lisbon, do not forget to visit the Lisbon’s National Tile Museum to know more about this Portuguese art form.
12 – Biggest wave ever surfed
If you love surfing, then surfing on a big wave is something you would yearn for and know about. The good news is that you are in Portugal, and Nazaré Canyon produces some of the biggest surf waves. American surfer Garrett McNamara has made a record here by surfing a 23.77-meter-high wave. Portugal indeed is a surfer’s paradise.
13 – World’s Oldest Diplomatic Alliance
Long before the diplomatic alliances were in fashion, Portugal made one that lasts to this day. The history goes back to 1373; the Anglo-Portuguese Alliance between Portugal and England was made and is in effect to this day. This makes it the world’s longest diplomatic partnership.
14 – Independence Over a Family Disagreement
Portugal’s independence in 1143 is owed to a family feud. This is as bizarre as it could get, but as true as it can be. Afonso Henriques, the first King of Portugal, had a disagreement with his mother, Countess Theresa, over her political alliances. This disagreement led to Portugal’s sovereignty.
15 – Europe’s longest Dictatorship
Portugal’s dictatorship lasted from 1926 to 1974, making it the longest dictatorship in Europe. This dictatorship ended with the bloodless Carnation Revolution, and democracy came into effect, shaping the political rule of modern Portugal as we know it today.
16 – Journey around the earth
There are many explorers who have completed a full journey around the Earth. But did you know the first one to do so was a Portuguese? Ferdinand Magellan from Portugal is believed to be the first explorer who led the voyage to circumnavigate the Earth.
17 – Top cork producer
Every bottle of wine in each and every corner of this world is incomplete without its cork cap. But did you know that Portugal is the world’s top cork producer? Portugal accounts for 70% of the world’s total cork exports. If you are visiting Portugal, do not forget to buy yourself a cork souvenir, be it cork coasters or cork bags.
18 – Pioneer of the Euro
Portugal was one of the first countries to adopt the euro and give up its currency, the Portuguese escudo. It was in the year 1999 that Portugal accepted the euro as its currency. Now here comes the interesting part that up till 2022, you exchange Portuguese escudo banknotes for Euro. It is one of the longest periods to exchange currency banknotes in Europe.
19 – The New Year calls for 12 raisins
Every country in the world has strange and bizarre traditions that seem unlikely to be true, and Portugal is no exception. When the clock strikes 12 at midnight of New Years Eve, people that are still awake take part in tradition of eating twelve raisins, that is one raisin for each strike of the clock. Every raisin eaten also grants them a wish that they can make in the first few months of the new year.
20 – First nation to decriminalize all drugs
On July 1, 2001, Portugal became the first country to decriminalize all drugs, possession, and use, in a bold move to transition from punishment to public health. Addiction here is seen as a health issue rather than a crime, and this policy change has led to a significant drop in drug overdose deaths, HIV infections, and drug-related offenses. With this policy, Portugal has positioned itself as a pioneer in drug-related issues.
21 – Port wine is a protected legacy
Authentic Port Wine comes only from the Douro Valley, which is one of the world’s oldest demarcated wine-producing regions. This UNESCO World Heritage site is known for its gravity-defying terraced vineyards. The preparation of Port wine is unique and has become a symbol of luxury among wine lovers.
22 – Subtitles over dubbing
Unlike other European countries, Portugal prefers original audio rather than dubbing. Foreign films and TV shows are broadcast here with original audio and subtitles, with an exception for children’s animated shows. This cultural preference is the reason why Portugal has one of the highest English proficiency rates in Southern Europe.
23 – The most advanced ATM system in the world
Someone said, “What is Technology if it doesn’t make life easier?” Daily life in Portugal is made easier by Multibanco which is one of the most versatile and advanced ATM network in the world. Unlike its peers, it is not just a machine to withdraw cash, but also helps you to pay your taxes, top up phone credit, buy train tickets, donate to charity, and even renew your fishing license. Multibanco makes other ATM networks in the world feel like living in the Stone Age.
24 – Portugal is a champion of clean beaches
From rugged Atlantic cliffs to the calm southern bays, nearly 400 blue flags fly over Portuguese beaches. It is a prestigious certification from the Foundation for Environmental Education (FEE) that signifies excellence in water quality, safety, and eco-management. Portugal has 394 certified beaches which makes it a pioneer in sustainable coastal tourism.
25 – 250 Million Speakers
The population of Portugal might be only 10 million, but Portuguese is spoken by around 270 million people. It is the world’s sixth most spoken language, and the most popular language in the Southern Hemisphere. It is also estimated that in the next 30 years, the population of Portuguese speakers will rise to 400 million people.
The goal is to travel to Portugal!
