Portugal

Located on the west and southwestern side of the Iberian Peninsula the Portuguese Republic is the westernmost country in Europe. Spain lies to the north and east and the Atlantic Ocean to the south and west.

Travel Insurance for Portugal:
Area: Europe *

Know Before You Go:
FCO Country Advice for Portugal
 

Portugal also includes the island archipelagos of the Azores and Madeira. The main rivers in Portugal are the Minho, Douro, Tagus and Tejo. The Azores consist of nine islands in the Atlantic, and Madeira consists of the inhabited islands of Madeira and Porto Santo and groups of smaller islands in the Atlantic, approx. 525 miles SW of Libson.

The population is made up of mostly Mediterranean peoples, some African immigrants and Eastern Europeans. Portuguese is the official language and Mirandese is also spoken. Roman Catholic is the dominant religion with some Protestant.

Portugal was formerly known as Lusitania. The first inhabitants of the Iberian Peninsula were thought to be Celtic tribes. The area was conquered by the Roman Empire in approx. 150 BC and by the end of their reign the Iberian Peninsula had been temporarily taken over and settled by other peoples, such as the Phoenicians, Greeks, Visigoths and Arabs. In the mid-11th century Portugal regained its independence from the Moors and Castilians and the monarchy was founded. During the 14th century Portuguese explorers discovered and settled Madeira and the Azores. Portugal had expanded its empire by the 16 C to include parts of W and E Africa, Indochina, the former Persia, Brazil and Malaysia.

During the late 15th century Portugal was invaded by Spain which started a period of decline, due in part to corruption and bad management of the colonial areas and resulting in Portugal losing many of its colonies to the English, French and Dutch. The downfall of the monarchy occurred in the early part of the 19th century, when the First Republic was then formed. Portugal was thereon plagued by revolutionary activity, civil war, and controlled by dictatorial leaders for many years until approx. 1974 when the current Second Republic democratic regime took control. Portugal joined the allies in WWI and remained neutral during WWII, although they assisted the Allies with military bases. Portugal became part of NATO in 1949, joined the UN in 1955 and the EEC in 1986.

The capital city of Lisbon is very diverse with great Portuguese cuisine, and natural beauty. As well as interesting history to explore, there are miles of sandy beaches, castles, churches, museums and monasteries. Although significant damage was sustained during an earthquake in the 17th century, much still remains. The Moorish 10th century St. George’s Castle affords wonderful views. The medieval area known as the Alfama district is perfect for strolling along the cobbled streets and alleys and browsing the markets, cafes and shops. A popular area for atmosphere and music is the Bairro Alto. The Tower of Belem is a famous Unesco World Heritage Site, being a fortress in Moorish style set in the Tagus river. One of Lisbon’s most notorious landmarks is the enormous monument in the shape of a ship, built to celebrate Portugal’s era of exploration and discovery. There are too many attractions to mention here, but not to be missed is exhibition park where there are attractions including an oceanarium, science centre, virtual reality show and many restaurants and bars.

Porto is the main city located on the sea in northern Portugal and world famous for its port wine which is exported all over the world. It has an international airport. There are miles of beaches and resorts as well as charming villages, and inland are the mountains and national park areas. The Celtic influence is evident, and there are many medieval castles, Roman walls, and historic places to visit.