Have you ever wondered why Portugal seems to be on everyone’s travel bucket list these days? From its dramatic coastlines to its mouth-watering cuisine, there’s a lot to love about this small but mighty country.

In this article, we’ll explore some fun facts about Portugal, shedding light on its rich history, innovative culture, and yes, even its claim to fame in the world of soccer.

Portugal Facts

Get ready to explore Portugal! Pay close attention to the facts, as they will be key to acing the quiz at the end of the page.

1. Lisbon is older than Rome by several centuries, making it one of the oldest capital cities in Western Europe.
2. The world’s oldest bookstore is in Lisbon, dating back to 1732.
3. The smallest international bridge connects this country with Spain, and it’s only 3.2 meters long.
4. Cork trees here are harvested every nine years without harming the tree, supplying about 50% of the world’s cork.
5. One of the earliest forms of anti-piracy legislation was implemented here in 1521.
6. Half of the “New World” was given to this country in the Treaty of Tordesillas in 1494, ratified by the Pope.
7. The nation has the highest percentage of forest area in Western Europe, thanks to extensive reforestation efforts.
8. Port wine, known worldwide, originated in the Douro Valley and is still produced there using traditional methods.
9. The world’s shortest-reigning monarch, King Luís Filipe, ruled for just 20 minutes in 1908.
10. This country established Zurara, the world’s first slave market, in Lagos in 1444.
11. It boasts the oldest diplomatic alliance in the world, maintained with England since 1373.
12. The Lisbon earthquake of 1755, which also affected Morocco, is one of the deadliest in European history.
13. The country features one of Europe’s few tea plantations on São Miguel in the Azores.

14. It was the first colonial power to abolish slavery, doing so in 1761, half a century before Britain, France, and the United States.
15. The Livraria Bertrand in Lisbon holds the Guinness record as the oldest operating bookstore in the world.
16. One of the largest artificial underwater parks in the world was created near Madeira.
17. Templar knights established one of their major fortresses in Tomar during the 12th century.
18. Amália Rodrigues, a renowned fado singer, helped popularize this melancholic music genre worldwide.
19. The world’s largest Santa Claus parade was held in Porto in 2010, featuring over 14,000 participants.
20. It is one of the world’s top surf spots, with Nazaré hosting record-breaking giant waves.
21. The Vasco da Gama Bridge is the longest bridge in Europe, spanning 17.2 kilometers across the Tagus River.
22. The only commercial tea plantations in Europe are found in the Azores.
23. It introduced tempura to Japan through Portuguese traders in the 16th century.
24. The Jose Mourinho, one of football’s most successful and celebrated coaches, hails from Setúbal.
25. The Azores is one of the world’s prime locations for whale and dolphin watching.
26. A typical village called Monsanto is built around, under, and into giant boulders.
27. It is home to Europe’s only tea plantation, which has been operating since the 19th century.
28. The Portuguese Water Dog is known for its swimming ability and was originally bred to help fishermen.

29. It has more than 250 native grape varieties, many of which are used only in this country and nowhere else.
30. The Chapel of Bones in Évora is decorated with the bones and skulls of over 5,000 individuals.
31. A traditional dish, “Francesinha,” is said to be derived from the French croque-monsieur.
32. This country was the first in Europe to establish a fixed time zone, doing so in 1911.
33. It has a town known as the “Portuguese Venice” because of its picturesque canals and boats.
34. The Algarve region is one of the least crowded coastal areas in Southern Europe.
35. An annual chocolate festival is held in Óbidos, attracting chocolatiers and enthusiasts from around the world.
36. It created one of the first appellation systems in the world for its wines, predating even France’s system.
37. A significant number of “New Christians” were secret Jews during the Inquisition, leading to a unique cultural blend.
38. The Rooster of Barcelos is considered a national symbol of justice and luck.

39. It holds one of the longest-running film festivals in the world in the city of Porto.
40. It was the last European country to abolish the death penalty, doing so in 1867.
41. The Biblioteca Joanina in Coimbra is known for its colony of bats that protect ancient books from insect damage.
42. The Berlengas Archipelago, a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, lies just off the west coast.
43. A unique musical instrument, the Portuguese guitar, is a key element in Fado music.
44. Its sailors were some of the first Europeans to discover the sea route to India, circumnavigating Africa.
45. The discovery of several dinosaur fossils in the Lourinhã region has provided significant insights into prehistoric life.
46. Its national soccer team won their first major tournament at Euro 2016, held in France.
47. Fernando Pessoa, a renowned writer, created several alter egos for his literary works.
48. The Serra da Estrela is the only region producing a traditional mountain cheese of the same name.
49. The Odeceixe beach is uniquely located at the point where the Algarve meets the Alentejo region.
50. It boasts a unique Roman temple in Évora, often misattributed to the goddess Diana.

Portugal Myths

Now, let’s uncover the truths that lie beneath the myths surrounding Portugal.

• Portugal is Only About Beaches
  It offers so much more than just beautiful beaches. Explore its rich history, visit charming towns, enjoy vibrant festivals, and taste world-renowned wines. The country’s diverse landscape includes stunning mountains, lush forests, and picturesque countryside.
• Portuguese Cuisine is Just Seafood
  Portuguese cuisine is incredibly diverse. While seafood is a highlight, you can also savor hearty meat dishes, delicious pastries like pastel de nata, and unique regional specialties. From North to South, each region offers its own culinary delights.
• Everyone in Portugal Speaks Spanish
  The official language is Portuguese, not Spanish. While many Portuguese people speak multiple languages, especially English, assuming they speak Spanish can be seen as culturally insensitive. Embrace the beautiful Portuguese language and culture during your visit.
• Portugal is a Hot Country All Year Round
  Portugal enjoys a Mediterranean climate, but it’s not hot year-round. Summers can be warm, especially in the south, but winters are mild and can be quite rainy, especially in the north. Always check the seasonal weather before planning your trip.
• Fado Music is Sad and Solemn
  Fado music, a traditional Portuguese genre, is often seen as melancholic. However, it also expresses joy, love, and humor. Fado is about storytelling and emotions, reflecting the full spectrum of human experience. Enjoying a live Fado performance can be an uplifting and unforgettable experience.

Portugal Quotes

We move forward to the quotes section. Take the time to share your favorite quotes at the comment section so I can add them to the list.

Margaret Thatcher, the former Prime Minister of the United Kingdom, humorously highlighted Portugal’s unique geographic position in Europe.

Alphonse de Lamartine, a French writer, poet, and politician, admired the abundance of religious architecture that he observed during his travels in Portugal.

Wim Wenders, a renowned German filmmaker, reflected on the deep emotional landscape of Lisbon, deeply influenced by the writings of Portuguese poet Fernando Pessoa.

Paula Rego, a distinguished Portuguese-British visual artist, expressed her ambition and confidence in the impact of her work within her homeland of Portugal.

Jacques Cousteau, a famous French naval officer, explorer, and conservationist, captured the mesmerizing allure of the Portuguese coastline, which is deeply intertwined with the nation’s history and culture.

Portugal FAQ

Now that you’ve enjoyed the quotes, let’s continue with the FAQ section. Pay close attention—this is the last stop before the quiz!

• What is the capital of Portugal?
  The capital of Portugal is Lisbon. It’s known for its rich history, stunning architecture, and vibrant cultural scene.
• What languages are spoken in Portugal?
  The official language is Portuguese. It’s also common to find people who speak English, especially in tourist areas and among younger generations.
• What is the currency of Portugal?
  It uses the Euro (€) as its currency.
• What are some must-visit places in Portugal?
  Some must-visit places include Lisbon for its historical sites, Porto for its wine culture, the Algarve for beautiful beaches, and Sintra for its fairy-tale palaces.
• What is Portugal famous for?
  It is famous for its port wine, cork products, beautiful beaches, historic sites, and soccer enthusiasm.

Portugal Trivia

Welcome to our Portugal quiz! Remember, if you don’t get any questions right, you might just find yourself banished to a mysterious Portuguese island with only a compass and a bottle of Port.

Conclusion

In conclusion, our exploration of Portugal has revealed a nation of profound cultural richness and diverse landscapes. From Lisbon’s historic alleys to the Algarve’s pristine shores, the country offers an array of experiences that enchant visitors.

Portugal is more than a destination; it is a welcoming home for all who wander into its borders. Till next time, stay curious and explore more. Cheers.