Portugal’s Carnation Revolution: 50 Years of Freedom
The Carnation Revolution, also known as the Portuguese Revolution of 1974, marked a pivotal moment in Portugal’s history, signaling the end of the authoritarian Estado Novo regime and the dawn of a new era of democracy. On April 25th, 1974, the country witnessed a peaceful military coup led by the Armed Forces Movement (MFA), initiating…
From Porto to Braga: Portuguese Easter Traditions
Portugal is a country filled with traditions, some of which remain virtually unchanged throughout the years. Thanks to its strong Catholic roots, it’s not surprising that many religious celebrations take place every year from the north to the south of Portugal. Among these celebrations is Easter, a time when devout Catholics all over the world…
Amadeo de Souza-Cardoso: A Pioneer of Modern Art in Portugal
Amadeo de Souza-Cardoso, born in Amarante, in the town of Manhufe, in November 1887, is today recognized as one of the most prominent avant-garde artists of the early 20th century. His legacy is intertwined with movements such as Cubism, Futurism, and Expressionism, reaching, at many points, and in a sustained way, a level that is…
Dona Antónia Adelaide Ferreira: Douro Valley Wine Legacy
Photo Credit: Casa Ferreirinha Portugal today is associated with many key elements, but one of them is undoubtedly the work and legacy that we have left, and continue to give, in the field of high-quality wine. If this is about our famous wines, like the worldwide Port wine, then one figure who is absolutely incomparable,…
Clérigos Tower: Porto ex-libris
Clerigos Tower stands tall, showcasing stunning architectural beauty in the heart of Porto The Torre dos Clérigos, constructed of granite and towering from the western apex of the church, is hailed as one of the city’s landmarks and measures a total of 75m (245 feet) in height. Its construction began in 1732 and was completed…
Porto Cathedral – Sé do Porto
A breathtaking side view of Porto Cathedral. Situated in the historical center of Porto and designated as a World Heritage Site by UNESCO, Sé do Porto, or Porto Cathedral, serves as an excellent starting point to explore the city and delve into the history of the nation’s foundation. In 1120, D. Teresa donated the medieval…
Fado in Lisbon, Coimbra and Porto
“Fado” is a word that derives from the Latin “fatum,” which means destiny. However, the origin of this distinctive musical style, highly cherished in Portugal, remains unknown. It is widely accepted that it emerged spontaneously in Lisbon during the 19th century as an expression among the most underprivileged classes in an urban setting. Maria Severa…
The Rabelo Boat: Barco Rabelo
Rabelo Boat in 1911, at Régua, Douro Valley. Before the construction of the railway or roads, the Port Wine reached Vila Nova de Gaia cellars through the masterpiece of naval carpentry called the Barco Rabelo and through the courage of the men who operated it. These Douro drivers went up and down the turbulent waters…
Port Wine
Port Wine Renowned in the Northern Region of Portugal, Portugal and worldwide, Port Wine possesses an identity often likened to the nectar of the gods. This fortified liqueur wine is produced within the Douro Demarcated Region, historically recognized as the world’s first official designated wine region, established in 1756 by Marquês de Pombal, a significant…
Porto’s Historic Market: Mercado do Bolhão
Mercado do Bolhão Vendor Mercado do Bolhão in Porto, is a market which adds colours, smells, tastes, textures, and sounds to life, sharpens the senses and makes it the perfect place to build memories and socialise. Locals and visitors pass by the stalls, talk to sellers and go into shops and restaurants in a relentless…