Fact 1: The Oldest Country in Europe
Portugal boasts of holding the record as the oldest country in Europe with the same defined borders. Portugal, as we know it today, was established in the 12th century, specifically 1139. It's the same year that Alfonso Henriques became its first king. Since then, the boundaries of Portugal have largely remained the same.
Fact 2: Home of The World's Oldest Bookstore
The Bertrand bookstore in Lisbon holds the distinction of being the world's oldest operating bookstore. Founded in 1732, it has been serving bookworms for nearly three centuries. This was confirmed by the Guinness World Records in 2011.
Fact 3: Portugal Gave Us Tempura
Contrary to popular belief, tempura, the popular Japanese dish, initially came from Portugal. Portuguese traders and missionaries introduced the dish in the 16th century to Nagasaki, Japan. The word "Tempura" originates from the Latin phrase 'ad tempora cuaresma', which means 'in the time of Lent'.
Fact 4: Portugal's Language Influence
Portuguese is not only spoken in Portugal. In fact, it's the official language of nine countries and is the sixth most spoken first language in the world with over 220 million native speakers. Countries such as Brazil, Mozambique, Angola, and East Timor use Portuguese as their official language.
Fact 5: Portugal's Role in Early Globalization
Portugal is renowned in history for initiating the Age of Discovery, creating maritime routes to Africa, Asia, and South America. This period featured prominent explorers such as Vasco da Gama and Bartolomeu Dias, significantly impacting global trade and interaction.
Fact 6: Prolific Cork Producer
Portugal produces about half of the cork harvested worldwide. The country is so serious about protecting its cork trees, that it's illegal to cut down a cork tree in Portugal without government permission.
Fact 7: The Capital's Unique Earthquake History
The Great Earthquake of 1755 in Lisbon spawned a tsunami and fires that nearly destroyed the city. This event was significant because it led to the world's first seismological study, giving birth to modern seismic engineering and architectural planning.
Fact 8: A Trendsetter in Renewable Energy
Portugal is a world leader in renewable energy, with over half of its energy needs met by hydropower, wind, and solar energy. In 2016, Portugal ran solely on renewable energy for 107 consecutive hours, a remarkable achievement.
Fact 9: Vineyards of the Douro Valley
The Douro Valley is not only a UNESCO World Heritage site for its stunning landscapes but also home to the world's first demarcated wine region. The region specifically famous for Port wine production was officially established in 1756.
Fact 10: The Legend of the Barcelos Rooster
The iconic Rooster of Barcelos is a national symbol of faith, luck, and justice based on a medieval Portuguese legend involving a dead rooster and a falsely accused man.
Fact 11: Abode of Ancient Rock Art
The Côa Valley Archaeological Park, another UNESCO World Heritage site, features thousands of engraved rock drawings from Upper Palaeolithic era, dating back to 22,000 BC, making it one of the world's oldest forms of art.
Fact 12: Portugal and Tea Plantations
Portugal's Azores islands have the only European tea plantations, especially notable in Sao Miguel Island. Gorreana tea plantation has been in operation since 1883.
Fact 13: Home to the World's Shortest Reign
King Louis I's son, Crown Prince Carlos briefly became King Carlos I of Portugal on October 19, 1889, but was assassinated just 20 minutes after his father's death, marking history's shortest reign.
Fact 14: Portugal's Famous Egg Tart
Pasteis de Nata, Portugal's famous creamy custard tarts, originated from Belem, near Lisbon, in the 18th century. Today, they are a popular dessert worldwide.
Fact 15: Invention of the Ukulele
The Ukulele, typically associated with Hawaiian culture, was actually introduced by Portuguese immigrants from Madeira who brought their string instruments like the Braguinha and the Rajao to the island in the 19th century.
Fact 16: Portugal's Ageing Population
Portugal has one of the highest proportions of elderly citizens, with around 20% of its population over the age of 65.
Fact 17: The Famous Fado Music
Fado music, a staple of Portuguese culture, reflects the country's cultural identity with melancholic tunes and lyrics about the sea, destiny, and the plight of the poor.
Fact 18: Christmas Celebrations
In Portugal, Christmastime is a grand affair where 'consoda' - a Christmas morning feast - is held to honor and remember the deceased family members. Empty seats and plates are often filled for the departed souls during this meal.
Fact 19: Student Capes
The long, black capes worn by Portuguese university students inspired J.K. Rowling's school uniforms in the Harry Potter series. The author lived in Porto and taught English in the early '90s.
Fact 20: A Country Proud of its Poetry
Luis Vaz de Camões, Portugal's famous poet, is so celebrated that Portugal's National Day, June 10th, was chosen to coincide with the anniversary of his death. He authored "Os LusÃadas," considered one of the most important works of Portuguese literature.