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Portugal in 10 Minutes
Introduction
1. Cristiano Ronaldo
2. Vasco da Gama
3. Amalia Rodrigues
4. Fernando Pessoa
5. Mariza
1. History
2. Culture
3. Landmarks
4. Beaches
5. Nature
6. Architecture
7. Wine
8. Festivals
9. People
10. Tourism
In a Nutshell
- Capital: Lisbon
- Population: Approx. 10.3 million (2021)
- Official Language: Portuguese
- Currency: Euro (EUR)
Breaking Down the Country
No composition analysis points available.
Timeline of Portugal
Foundation of the Kingdom of Portugal
Treaty of Windsor signed between Portugal and England
Vasco da Gama's first voyage to India
Portuguese colonization of Brazil begins
Battle of Alcácer Quibir
Portugal becomes part of the Iberian Union with Spain
Restoration of Portuguese independence from Spain
Great Lisbon Earthquake
Signing of the Treaty of Tordesillas
Carnation Revolution in Portugal
Portugal joins the European Union
Portugal hosts the UEFA Euro 2004 football tournament
Portugal wins the UEFA European Championship
COVID-19 pandemic hits Portugal
António Guterres becomes Secretary-General of the United Nations
Portugal decriminalizes drug possession for personal use
Portugal becomes a founding member of NATO
End of the Estado Novo dictatorship in Portugal
Portuguese explorer Ferdinand Magellan circumnavigates the globe
Opening of the Vasco da Gama Bridge in Lisbon
Vocabulary List
- Fado
- A traditional Portuguese music genre that expresses a feeling of longing and nostalgia.
- Lisbon
- The capital city of Portugal, known for its historic architecture and vibrant culture.
- Porto
- A coastal city in northwest Portugal, famous for its port wine production.
- Saudade
- A Portuguese word that represents a deep emotional state of nostalgic or profound melancholic longing for an absent something or someone.
- Azulejo
- A form of Portuguese or Spanish painted, tin-glazed, ceramic tilework.
- Pastel de nata
- A Portuguese egg tart pastry, common in Portugal and countries with significant Portuguese immigrant populations.
- Algarve
- The southernmost region of Portugal, known for its stunning beaches and warm climate.
- Fado houses
- Venues in Portugal where traditional Fado music is performed, often accompanied by dinner and drinks.
- Cristiano Ronaldo
- A famous Portuguese footballer, widely regarded as one of the greatest players of all time.
Key Facts
This is the information used in the fact matching game
- Portugal is the oldest nation-state in Europe.
- Portugal is the world's largest cork producer.
- Portugal is known for its port wine production.
- The Vasco da Gama bridge in Lisbon is one of the longest bridges in Europe.
- Portugal is the world's largest producer of cork.
- Portuguese is the official language of Portugal.
- Portugal is known for its beautiful beaches and coastline.
- The capital of Portugal is Lisbon.
- Portugal has a Mediterranean climate with mild winters and hot summers.
- The Azores and Madeira are autonomous regions of Portugal.
- Portugal was a colonial power with territories in Africa, Asia, and South America.
- The Portuguese explorer Vasco da Gama was the first European to reach India by sea.
- The University of Coimbra in Portugal is one of the oldest universities in Europe.
- Fado music is a traditional genre of music in Portugal.
- Portugal is a member of the European Union.
- The national dish of Portugal is bacalhau (salted cod).
- Portugal has a rich maritime history due to its strategic location on the Atlantic Ocean.
- The Algarve region in Portugal is known for its golf courses and resorts.
- The Portuguese flag features an armillary sphere, a symbol of navigation and exploration.
- Portugal is one of the sunniest countries in Europe.
Why It Matters
Geopolitical Significance
Portugal’s strategic location on the western edge of Europe has historically made it a key player in maritime exploration and trade. Its position along the Atlantic Ocean has influenced its relationships with countries in Africa, South America, and beyond, shaping its role in global politics and economics.
Historical Importance
Portugal has a rich history of exploration, colonization, and cultural exchange. From the Age of Discovery to the establishment of a global empire, Portugal’s past is marked by influential figures like Prince Henry the Navigator and Vasco da Gama. Its historical connections to countries like Brazil and Angola continue to impact its identity.
Modern-Day Role
Today, Portugal is a member of the European Union and NATO, playing a key role in the political and economic integration of Europe. Its diverse economy, strong tourism industry, and cultural heritage make it a significant player in global markets and a popular destination for travelers.
Portugal Games
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