Portugal in Europe. Spectator sports. Car rental in Portugal

Lisbon is the capital and largest city of Portugal and boasts a rich history. From the Phoenician language, its name literally translates as "beloved bay." This is not surprising, since since ancient times it has played the role of an important port harbor of the state. For all the time of its existence, it was ruled by the Romans, Germans and Arabs. It wasn't until 1147 that the first Portuguese king, Alfonso Henriques, conquered Lisbon. A century later, it was proclaimed the main city of the state.

General description and location

The capital of Portugal is located on the Iberian Peninsula, on the right bank of the Tagus River, fifteen kilometers from the Atlantic coast. According to the latest official figures, about 2.3 million people live here. The city, whose area is approximately 84 square kilometers, is located on seven hills that descend in ledges towards the river mentioned above. The enchanting originality of Lisbon gives a lot of funiculars and hotels. Almost immediately after the noisy highways there are steep stairs that lead to quiet park corners with ponds and singing birds. Local weather almost always pleases tourists coming here with its constancy and softness.

Short story

The first settlement on the site of the current location of Lisbon was a commercial stop built at the intersection of important sea ​​routes. It was founded 1200 years before the birth of Christ. Since that time, the Portuguese capital has been constantly growing and developing, having survived the control of the Roman Empire, the Moors, the Spaniards, as well as the plague, the invasion of Napoleonic troops, fires, earthquakes and the Inquisition.

As noted above, in 1147 the city was liberated from the Moors. Beginning in the fifteenth century, the whole of Portugal (the capital Lisbon in particular) experienced a flourishing trade and rapid economic development. IN main port countries arrived large merchant ships from South America, India and Africa. At that time, the city became one of the most developed in Europe. At the same time, the most amazing architectural monuments began to appear here, some of which have survived to this day.

In 1755, there was a strong sudden earthquake, due to which the capital of Portugal was badly damaged: several tens of thousands died. local residents most of the buildings were destroyed. Almost from the ashes, the city was rebuilt largely thanks to the efforts made by the Marquis of Pombal.

Transport

The easiest way to get to the Portuguese capital is by air. The airport is located at a distance of seven kilometers from its center. It is also quite convenient to travel by car and train. There are four large stations in Lisbon, providing rail links not only with Portuguese, but also European cities. Quite developed are also bus lines, due to which the capital of Portugal is connected with all its largest cities. On the streets you can see a lot of trams, which here enjoy the same respect and love of the inhabitants as London's double-decker buses.

Attractions

One of the main attractions of Lisbon is Rossio Square, which is located in its very center. In the eighteenth century, public executions and bullfights were held here. Separate words deserve a statue of Christ with outstretched arms, which is installed on a high pedestal, on the very bank of the Tagus River. Among the inhabitants of the city there is an opinion that she hugs them and blesses them.

One of the most impressive symbols of wealth and power that the capital of Portugal once boasted is the Jeronimos Monastery, built in 1502. The starting point for numerous discoveries made local sailors, became the Belen tower. It was erected in 1515, and the original purpose was to protect the entrance to the Lisbon harbor. Another popular place among tourists is the Maritime Museum, which exhibits models of ships and instruments for navigation. Its history dates back to 1863, when King Luis came up with the idea of ​​creating a collection of various maritime artifacts. It is impossible not to mention the Park of Nations, which is a separate area of ​​the city, the architecture of which, due to its futurism, has become the complete opposite of the historical quarters.

First capital

Be that as it may, Lisbon has been the capital of Portugal only since 1255. Until that time, this status belonged to another city. In particular, the first Portuguese king Alfonso Henriques in 1131 proclaimed the main administrative center countries of Coimbra. It should be noted that now this city is the third largest in the state, second only to Lisbon and Porto.

The first capital of Portugal has preserved to this day many treasures and archaeological sites, including a well-preserved aqueduct. One of the oldest universities in Europe is also located here. What else Coimbra is famous for is its football traditions, because the local club, called Academica, was founded by students back in 1876.

Age of the Greats geographical discoveries, when the Portuguese discovered India and America, ended in the middle of the XVII century. Perhaps now, in the 21st century, the time has come for tourists to discover Portugal itself. Indeed, in Portugal there is not only football, but also ancient monuments of architecture, medieval fortresses and palaces, excellent wines, beautiful nature and beach resorts, many of which are popular with European aristocratic families.

Portugal is located on the famous Iberian Peninsula, in the south-west of Europe. In the north and east, Portugal borders on Spain, and in the west and south it is washed by the Atlantic Ocean. Portugal includes the Azores and the Madeira archipelago. total area this country - 301,338 sq. km.

The northern part of Portugal is occupied by mountains, and the southern part by plains and lowlands. The most high peak- Mount Estrela, whose height reaches 1,993 meters.

Several rivers flow through the territory of Portugal, the largest of them are Tajo and Duero.

The capital of Portugal is Lisbon, which is now home to more than 550 thousand people. Archaeologists claim that a human settlement on the site of modern Lisbon existed as early as 1200 BC.

The official language in Portugal is Portuguese, which belongs to the Romance group of the Indo-European language family. Second official language in Portugal is the Mirandese language, also belonging to the Romance group of languages. This language is spoken in the northeast of the country.

More than 91% of the population of Portugal are Catholics belonging to the Roman Catholic Church. Another 3.2% of Portuguese consider themselves Protestants or Orthodox Christians.

According to the Constitution of 1976, Portugal is a parliamentary constitutional republic. The President is elected for 5 years.

The country's parliament is the Assembleia da República, consisting of 230 deputies elected for a 4-year term.

The main political parties in Portugal are the Socialist Party, the Social Democratic Party, and the coalition of the Portuguese Communist Party and the Greens.

The climate in mainland Portugal differs considerably in different regions, and depends on the relief and proximity to the sea. Winters are cold, especially in the hinterland of Portugal, while summers are hot and dry. IN coastal areas The country's air temperature is slightly less, due to the influence of the Atlantic Ocean.

The climate of the Azores is strongly influenced by the current of the Gulf Stream, and is characterized by hot summers and warm winters. Madeira has a subtropical climate. average temperature in summer - + 24C, and in winter - + 19C.

Portugal is washed by the Atlantic Ocean. Portugal includes the Azores and the Madeira archipelago (they are located in the Atlantic Ocean). The coast of continental Portugal is 943 km.

The average temperature of the Atlantic Ocean in the south of Portugal in the Algarve:

January - +14С
- February - +14С
- March - +16С
- April - +16С
- May - +17С
- June - +19C
- July - +20C
- August - +21С
- September - +21C
- October - +19C
- November - +17C
- December - +15C

Most of the rivers in Portugal originate in the Mesete mountains. The largest of them are Tajo, Duero, Minho and Guadiana. Another large Portuguese river originates in the Serra da Estrela mountains.

There are no large natural lakes in continental Portugal (there are only artificial reservoirs). However, there are several large lagoons here.

The history of Portugal dates back to the Celtic tribes who settled the Iberian Peninsula around 700 BC. Later, the territory of modern Portugal was conquered by the Romans, and then the Moors (Arabs). Portugal (together with Spain) remained under Moorish rule for over 400 years.

Only in 1143 did Portugal become an independent state led by King Alfonso Enrique. In the 15th century, the expansion of Portugal abroad began, and the Portuguese built a huge colonial empire, which included Africa, South America, India and the Far East. However, Spain conquered Portugal in the 16th century.

During the era of the Napoleonic Wars, Portugal was captured by the French armies of Napoleon Bonaparte, but the rule of the French was short-lived. England intervened in the war and, in the end, the Napoleonic soldiers left Portugal.

Throughout the 19th century, the decline of Portugal continues, and, in the end, at the beginning of the 20th century, a revolution took place in this country. The monarchy was dissolved in 1910, King Manuel II went into exile, and Portugal was proclaimed a democratic republic.

In 1928, a military coup took place in Portugal, and António de Oliveira Salazar came to power for many years. His reign lasted until 1968.

During World War II, Portugal declared its neutrality. After a military coup in 1974, Portugal recognized the independence of its African colonies.

In 1949, Portugal joined the NATO military bloc, and in 1986 it was admitted to the European Union. In 1999, Portugal handed over its Chinese colony of Macau to communist China.

Portuguese culture takes its traditions from the era of the Celts, who had a great influence on local folklore. In turn, Portuguese culture during the Great Geographical Discoveries had a great influence on the culture of some countries in Africa and South America.

Traditional Portuguese fado music has been influenced by Arabic, Greek, and Spanish musical traditions.

Portugal is a country of fairs, festivals and festivities. The most grandiose holiday is St. Anthony's Day, celebrated on June 13 every year in Lisbon. Saint Anthony was a Franciscan friar. He is considered the patron saint of sailors and poor people. On the night of June 12-13, Lisbon turns into one big fair.

June 23-24 in Porto celebrates the Day of St. John, who is the patron saint of this city. On the night of June 23-24, literally all the inhabitants of Porto take to the streets, and the city turns into one big carnival. The celebration of Saint John's Day has pagan roots, when the Celts celebrated the summer solstice.

If you are in Portugal in August, be sure to visit the village of Santa Maria da Feira. This village hosts a jousting tournament every year, during which knights in heavy armor and with swords fight each other.

In the 15th century, the Portuguese prince Henry the Navigator ordered all Portuguese sailors, merchants and travelers to bring without fail to Portugal exotic fruits, vegetables and plants that they will meet on their way. Therefore, as a result of the Great geographical discoveries, Portuguese cuisine was enriched with new products, as well as spices.

Exactly Portuguese sailors brought to Europe potatoes, tomatoes and tea. However, the Romans and the Moors also had a great influence on Portuguese cuisine.

Fresh fish and shellfish are on the menu of every regional Portuguese cuisine. The traditional national Portuguese dish is "bacalhau" (dried cod). The Portuguese claim that there are 365 ways to cook dried cod.

Other traditional Portuguese dishes include "caldeirada" (stewed fish or squid stew), "cozido à Portuguesa" (stewed vegetables with meat), "tripeiros" (pork sausages), "tripeiros" (meat dish), soup " caldo verde" (with potatoes, cabbage and sausage), and "pastel de nata" biscuits.

Portugal is famous for its wines. Tourists in this country are advised to try the local "Port" and "Madeira".

The Portuguese have always carefully kept their historical monuments, so it's no surprise that there are so many attractions in this country. The top ten Portuguese attractions in our opinion include the following:

Torre de Belem castle

Pena Palace in Sintra

Village of Monsaraz

Monastery of Alcobaça

Templar Castle Convento de Cristo

The ancient Roman settlement of Conimbrig

Saint George Castle in Lisbon

Statue of Jesus Christ in Lisbon

Church of San Francisco in Porto

Bolsa Palace in Porto

The largest Portuguese cities are Lisbon, Porto, Braga, Amadora, Funchal and Setubal.

Continental Portugal has great places for summer holidays - Quinta do Lago, Vilamoura, Albufeira, Alvor, as well as the so-called. Lisbon Riviera(Cascais, Carcavelos and Estoril).

Banks work:
Mon-Fri: 08:30-15.00

Store opening hours:
Mon-Fri: 09:00-19:00 with lunch break
On Saturday, most shops are open until 14:00

Useful data for tourists about Portugal, cities and resorts of the country. As well as information about the population, the currency of Portugal, the cuisine, the features of visa and customs restrictions in Portugal.

Geography of Portugal

The Portuguese Republic is the westernmost state in Europe. Located in the southwestern part Iberian Peninsula. It borders with Spain and is washed by the Atlantic Ocean.

Northern part country is busy low mountains Serra da Estrela (height up to 1991 m.), southern and central parts - Portuguese lowlands, hills and low mountains.

State

State structure

Parliamentary republic with a presidential form of government. The head of government is the prime minister. Parliament is the unicameral Assembly (Council) of the Republic.

Language

Official language: Portuguese

Spanish and English are used.

Religion

Catholics (97%) and Protestants (1%).

Currency

International name: EUR

Euro is equal to 100 cents. In circulation there are banknotes in denominations of 5, 10, 20, 50, 100, 200 and 500 euros, as well as coins in denominations of 1, 2, 5, 10, 20 and 50 cents.

The most convenient way to exchange money is at Lisbon airport ( favorable exchange rate, below commission fee), in banks and hotels, the exchange rate is lower, and the fee is higher (in banks, the commission is 0.5%). Exchange rates in different banks can differ significantly from each other. Some commercial banks do not charge commissions for transactions below 30 euros. In some private shops and markets, you can pay with US dollars.

Traveler's checks are accepted everywhere and their exchange rate is more profitable than for cash, but the commissions are quite high (up to 13%), with the exception of American Express checks, which can be exchanged without commission at Amex. Eurocheques with a check guarantee card are exchanged at many banks. MasterCard, American Express and Visa credit cards are accepted everywhere. ATMs ("multibancos") are located in all tourist centers.

History of Portugal

Until the Middle Ages, the history of Portugal was inseparable from the history of Spain. In the II century BC. the territory of modern Portugal became part of the Roman province of Lusitania.

In the 5th century AD control over the region passed to the Visigoths, and in the VIII century - to the Moors. In 997, the territory between the Douro and Minho rivers (northern Portugal) was conquered from the Moors by King Bermudo II of Leon. In 1064, King Ferdinand I of Castile and León seized the territory as far as modern Coimbra. The territories conquered from the Moors were divided into several feudal fiefs. In 1093, in gratitude for his help in the war with the Moors, King Alfonso 1 granted Henry of Burgundy the title of Count of Portugal.

After the death of Alfonso, Henry refused to recognize the authority of the Kingdom of Castile and started a war. In 1143 Henry's son Alfonso Henriquez was proclaimed King Alfonso 1 of Portugal by the Portuguese knights. In 1179 the Pope recognized the independence of Portugal.

Over the next two centuries, the Portuguese kings waged wars with the Moors, which ended in the end with the expulsion of the latter from the country. At the beginning of the 15th century, the first large voyages of Portuguese sailors began. In 1418 and 1427, Portuguese sailors discovered Madeira and the Azores and annexed them to Portugal.

In the 17th century, King João IV expelled the Dutch from Brazil and established full Portuguese rule in the region. At the beginning of the 19th century, fleeing Napoleon's army, the royal family fled to Brazil and ruled Portugal from Brazil from 1807 to 1820.

At the beginning of the 20th century, the republican movement gained strength in Portugal and in 1910, after the revolution, Portugal was proclaimed a republic. One of the darkest pages in the history of Portugal is the rule of the dictator Salazar, who came to power in 1932 and created the authoritarian regime of the so-called Estado Novo (new power).

In April 1974, a group of young officers carried out a coup d'état, also called the April Revolution. As a result, democratic reforms began in the country. Portugal is a member of the UN, GATT, IMF, WHO, NATO, EU, Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development.

Until the Middle Ages, the history of Portugal was inseparable from the history of Spain. In the II century BC. the territory of modern Portugal became part of the Roman province of Lusitania ....

Popular Attractions

Tourism in Portugal

Where to stay

Today, Portugal provides many opportunities for living. Here you can find both luxurious hotels and inexpensive campsites, rural houses for rent. Because the hotel business strictly controlled by the state, the owners try to provide services at the highest level. After all, the slightest discrepancy with the rank of the "star" of the hotel threatens to deprive such a profitable business. Hotels in Portugal are graded from five stars and below.

Hotels in Portugal usually offer half board meals. The cost of living depends on the location of the hotel, but in most resort areas a single pricing policy is practiced. Those who prefer the comfort and conveniences available only in hotels choose apart-hotels from 2 to 5 stars.

For all lovers of home comfort and a measured luxurious life, accommodation is offered in expensive elite estates, which are located in a picturesque countryside. Moreover, the level of service offered is really at a high level, because such estates correspond to the category of 5 stars.

Among those who prefer economical vacation Boarding houses are also very popular - a kind of analogue to the European Bed & Breakfast in the Portuguese manner. Boarding houses also have their own categories, namely three, and the highest is intended, as a rule, for foreign tourists.

Popular accommodation in Portugal are inns. The peculiarity of such yards is the location in old buildings, heartfelt family welcome provided by the hosts, as well as a high level of comfort.

No less colorful are the peasant farms, which involve complete immersion in the life typical of Portuguese rural residents. In addition to being located in comfortable country houses or village houses, you will be offered horseback riding, excursions to vineyards, and even participation in agricultural work.

Campsites are mostly located in resort areas, they are classified from 1 to 4 stars. This can be either a public campsite for everyone, or closed private campsites, where only members of the club are allowed to stay.

Motels in Portugal are not the safest or most comfortable places to stay. They are located, as a rule, near busy roads and are intended for a short rest during a trip.

Tips

If you are satisfied with the service, leave the waiter about a 10% tip. It is also customary for taxi drivers to leave a 10% tip.

Visa

Office Hours

Banks operate in weekdays from 8.30 am to 3 pm, some branches of banks in Lisbon and tourist areas close at 18:00, and in large shopping centers of the Algarve they are open daily from 9:00 to 21:00. ATMs of the national system "MULTIBANCO" operate around the clock.

Shops are open on weekdays from 09:00 to 13:00 and from 15:00 to 19:00. On Saturdays, most shops close at 13:00.

Purchases

VAT (IVA) is 8% on services and about 10% on goods. The prices must necessarily indicate whether the price of goods or services includes VAT ("IVA incluido") or not ("mas 8% IVA"). Many stores offer tax refunds on purchases of goods over a certain amount (each store has its own, but usually no less than 50 euros). It is necessary to receive a check for a tax refund, present a passport, fill out a special form, and the refund must be sent by bank transfer. You can also get a tax refund at customs when leaving the country at Lisbon Airport (International Departure Hall), Lisbon Sea Port, Porto airports (before passing passport control) and Funchal.

Souvenirs

In Portugal, you can buy high-quality and fashionable shoes and clothes, gold items, ceramics, original white or red port wine, the world-famous Portuguese Madeira wine.

Portugal is charming country, which can be called a quiet European province, where virgin nature serenely coexists with a developed tourist infrastructure, and respect for national customs coexists peacefully with pan-European traditions. Hospitality is one of the traits national character the Portuguese. Arriving here, you immediately feel that you are really welcome here. In addition, guests will be pleasantly surprised by the willingness of local residents to help in any situation, combined with the calm dignity, courtesy and restraint inherent in the style of communication of the Portuguese. Extensive sandy beaches and harsh coastal cliffs on which the waves of the Atlantic Ocean break, gentle hills covered with greenery and mountain peaks, an abundance of flowers and red earth ...
Portugal is that rare land where everyone can find something for themselves: untouched landscapes, striking with amazing diversity, so atypical for a state with a small territory, and majestic monuments of the past - witnesses of the country's eight centuries of history.

Geography

A state in southwestern Europe, located in the western part of the Iberian Peninsula. In the north and east it borders with Spain. In the west and south it is washed by the Atlantic Ocean. Madeira and the Azores are autonomous regions of Portugal. The total area of ​​Portugal, including the Azores (2335 sq. km) and Madeira Islands (794 sq. km) is 92082 sq. km. Portugal also owns overseas territory- Macau to East Asia located near Hong Kong. Most of The country's territory is mountainous; in the west and south, the mountains pass into a vast coastal plain. The tallest Mountain chain Portugal Serra da Estrela reaches a height of up to 2000 m. The country is crossed by three big rivers, originating in Spain and flowing into the Atlantic Ocean: Tagus (Tajo), at the mouth of which is Lisbon; Douro (Duero) and Guardiana, which forms part of the country's eastern border. Capital Lisbon.

Time

Behind Moscow for 3 hours.

Climate

Portugal belongs to the subtropical climate zone. The nature of the weather is determined by the influence of the Atlantic Ocean, which keeps the temperature in the country lower than at the same latitudes in the Mediterranean. The cold Canary Current also has a cooling effect. To a large extent, weather conditions are determined by relief. Several climatic regions can be distinguished on the territory of the country: northwestern with abundant rains, mild winters and short summers; the northeast with longer, cold, snowy winters and hot summers, and the south with a deficit of precipitation, long hot, dry summers and mild winters. Every year in all regions of Portugal, snow can fall, but a stable snow cover is not formed.

The coldest month is January. Its average temperature varies from +3 in the northeast of the country to +11.9 in the south. At the same time, the characteristic temperatures for night and day are +0.5 and +8 for the northern regions and +8 and +16 for the southernmost.

The average monthly temperature of the hottest months, July and August, varies from north to south from +19 to +23.4. During these months, the daily temperature in all regions exceeds +24 degrees, reaching +28.8 in the south. At night, the thermometer drops to +10 in the north and up to +16..18 in the south.

Most of the precipitation falls during the cold season. In the mountains in the north, almost everywhere, more than 1000 mm of precipitation falls annually. Their greatest number is noted on the slopes of the Serra da Estrela, the top of which is covered with snow in November-May. On the plains of Central and Southern Portugal, the annual precipitation is 400-800 mm, and along the southern coast in some places it drops to 300 mm. The driest months are July and August. Portugal is the country with the largest number of sunny days. IN southern regions quantity sundial reaches 3000 per year.

Bathing season for west coast lasts only three months, but even during this period swimming is an amateur - the water temperature is about +18. Water warms up more near the southern coast (up to +21), where the bulk of resort towns. best time for a beach holiday on the mainland of Portugal is the period from July to September, when the water temperature reaches +19...21. In general, the climate of Portugal is very favorable, and it can be visited at any time. It is interesting to visit the country in February, when the Carnival takes place.

Language

The official language is Portuguese, but Spanish and English are also spoken.

Religion

Most of the population of Portugal (94%) professes Catholicism, and various areas of Protestantism are also represented. There are Jewish communities in Lisbon and Porto (200 thousand people). About 5% of the country's inhabitants recognize themselves as atheists.

Population

The population of the country, including the Azores and Madeira, is 10.56 million people. IN coastal zone about 70% of the country's population is concentrated. prevails urban population. Most typical of Portugal small towns with a population of no more than 10 thousand people. Nationally, the population of Portugal is homogeneous. 99% are Portuguese, whose language belongs to the Romance group. The basis of the Portuguese ethnic group are the Lusitans, one of the ancient Iberian tribes.

Electricity

220 V, 50 Hz.

Emergency Phones

In case of emergency - 115 (from anywhere in the country, at any time of the day). In case of a traffic accident, use the nearest (orange) telephone 308, ambulance, police, fire brigade - 112, help desk - 118.

Connection

For automatic telephone communication with Portugal, the country code (351) is dialed, followed by the city (area) code and the called party number. When calling from Portugal itself to the islands, "0" is added to the local code. There are many Wi-Fi hotspots throughout the country. GPRS-roaming is offered by the main Russian operators. Ordinary access can be obtained from an Internet cafe in major cities. Also available are some post offices. The easiest way is to call from a pay phone that works with "CREDITOFONE" cards, a call from a bar, restaurant or hotel will cost 3-4 times more. Tariffs are reduced after 22.00, and for international calls - after 20.00.

Currency exchange

The local currency is Escudo. 1 escudo = 100 centavos. There are coins in denominations from 1 (there are even 2.50) centavos to 200. Banknotes - from 500 to 10,000. The exchange rate is approximately $ 1 = 188 PTE.
It is more convenient to exchange money at the Lisbon airport, where the exchange rate is always high. In banks and hotels, the exchange rate is lower, and they will charge more for the exchange. Hand trading in dollars is not practiced. In many stores, payment can be made in dollars. Almost everywhere you can pay credit cards. At every step, even small towns there are ATMs, however, as a rule, $50 and $100 bills are not exchanged, and the exchange rate is not favorable. Banks are open on weekdays until 15-17 hours.

Visa

A Schengen visa is required to enter Portugal. The usual time for processing documents at the embassy is up to 2 weeks.

Customs regulations

Import of foreign and national currency Unlimited cash and traveler's checks. However, if the amount of imported foreign currency exceeds EUR 4987.98, it must be declared. The export of the national currency from the country is limited - the amount should not exceed 498.80 euros. There are no restrictions on the export of foreign currency, however, if the amount exceeds 4987.98 euros, a certificate from exchange office. Portugal is allowed duty-free importation of personal belongings and food, in the amount necessary for personal consumption; cigarettes - 200 pcs., strong drinks - 1 l, strong wine - 2 l, dry - 2 l. It is forbidden to import drugs, gold in the form of ingots, coins, plates without the permission of the country's bank, illegally published printed materials. Upon import, weapons, antiquities and art, items made of precious metals are subject to mandatory customs inspection.

Holidays and non-working days

New Year - January 1
Carnival Tuesday - February/March - the day before Ash Wednesday, the first day of Lent
Good Friday - March/April - Holy Week Friday
Freedom Day - April 25 - anniversary of the 1974 revolution
Labor Day - May 1
Corpus Christi - May/June - ninth Thursday after Easter
Portugal Day - June 10
Feast of the Assumption of the Virgin - August 15
Republic Day - October 5 - the anniversary of the proclamation in 1910 of the Republic of Portugal
All Saints Day - November 1
Independence Day - December 1 - the anniversary of the declaration of independence from Spain in 1640
Feast of the Immaculate Conception - December 8
Christmas - December 25

Transport

The main urban modes of transport are buses and trams, there is a metro in Lisbon and Porto, and several lifts operate in the capital. Bus and tram fares vary depending on the distance. Tickets can be purchased in advance at the kiosk or from the driver (which is more expensive). A city bus ticket is valid for two trips and costs about 50 cents. The fare on the subway will cost 45 cents if you buy a ticket from the cashier, and 40 cents if you take a ticket from a machine. Portugal has a system of tourist passes for urban transport (bus, tram and metro, also valid for funiculars), which are available at many railway stations and metro stations. When traveling by taxi in the city, the fee is charged by the meter, and outside it - by mileage, including the return trip to the place of departure. All cities are connected by excellent bus service (comfortable and inexpensive). You can also travel by plane of one of the domestic airlines - TAP Air Portugal or Portugalia. There is also the Azores airline SATA.

Tips

Portugal is one of the few countries where taking and giving tips is not customary.

The shops

Shops in Portugal are open Monday to Friday from 9:00 to 13:00 and from 15:00 to 19:00, on Saturday most of them close at 13:00. There are no lunch breaks in supermarkets. Shopping centers in large cities are also open on weekends and holidays from 10:00 to 22:00 - 23:00. TAX FREE system operates in Portuguese shops. If you take a receipt for the goods, then the value added tax will be refunded at the airport. This service is valid if your stay in the country does not exceed 3 months.

National cuisine

Favorite dishes of the Portuguese are sardines, tuna (although it is too expensive for the layman), salted cod, crab croquettes and other seafood. Portuguese cuisine is rich in sauces. Rice is widely used in Portuguese cuisine, not only as a side dish for second courses, but also as a dessert - with milk and eggs, sugar, vanilla, cinnamon or lemon peel. Portuguese cabbage soup is interesting - almost the same as Russian ones, they are called "caldo verde" (caldo verde). It can also be translated as "hot green", which is home to the foothills near the Minho River. Known for its cheeses, fruits and olive oils, Beira Baixa (lower coast) offers travelers a simple but very tasty menu, such as pumpkin soup with beaten egg and "coelho com carqueja", which is eaten for dessert "tijolada" ( sweet cream) and migas doses. In Cuimbra, typical dishes include broccoli soup, eel soup (ensopada de enguias), suckling pig and, among the richest selection of sweets, ovos moles, the famous dessert from Aveiro, based on sugar, eggs and cinnamon.

As a rule, the menu of a Portuguese restaurant includes the main local dish: "Tripesh a moda do Porto" or "Beef giblets from Porto". The most delicious Atlantic fish served on the table on the Portuguese coast is robalo - wolf perch. A very popular caldeirada is a thick stew like fish soup from different types fish and other seafood, which is cooked in a cataplan - a special copper dish.

Of the fruits, pineapples from the Azores and bananas from Madeira are especially tasty. Portugal serves a wide variety of desserts, among which the unique almond cake - bolo de amendoa stands out. In Portugal, inexpensive wines are traditionally served for dinner. It is especially worth trying the famous Portuguese port wine.

Attractions

Monastery of Hieronymites(Hieronymites) (Mosteiro Jeronimos), located in the Belem district of Lisbon, Portugal. This magnificent monastery is considered one of the most important monuments of Lisbon and is certainly one of the most successful achievements of the Manueline architectural style in Portugal. In 1983, the monastery was classified by UNESCO, with its neighboring Torre de Belem, as a World Heritage Site.

Queluz National Palace(Portuguese: Nacional de Queluz Palacio), an 18th century Portuguese palace located in Queluz, in the modern municipality of Sintra, in the Lisbon region. One of the last large Rococo buildings to be developed in Europe. The palace was conceived as a summer residence for Don Pedro Braganza (Dom Pedro Braganza). One wing of the palace, the Dona Maria Pavilion, built between 1785 and 1792 by the architect Manuel Caetano de Sousa, is now a small hotel that houses foreign heads of state visiting Portugal.

Monastery of Alcobaça(Portuguese: Mosteiro de Santa Maria de Alcobaca) is a medieval monastery located in the city of Alcobaça, in central Portugal. The monastery was founded by the first Portuguese King, Alfonso Henriques, in 1153, and has maintained a close association with the Kings of Portugal throughout the history of the country. Church and monastery were the first gothic buildings in Portugal, and, together with Monastery of Santa Cruz in Coimbra, it was one of the most important medieval monasteries in Portugal. Due to its artistic and historical importance, the monastery was included in the UNESCO World Heritage List in 1989.

No visitor misses tower of bethlehem St. Vincent - the original fortification, recognizable at first sight. Named after a saint who is considered the patron saint of Lisbon, the tower has long been a symbol of the city. Like a mighty galleon, she stands in the waters of the Tagus River, facing the Atlantic Ocean, whose endless waters begin very close by.

Mafra National Palace- a monumental palace - a monastery in the style of Baroque and Italianized Neoclassicism, located in the suburbs of Lisbon, Mafra, in Portugal. Its size is so huge that it overshadows the city. The palace-monastery is said to be Portugal's original attempt to compete with Spain's Escorial Palace, located on the outskirts of Madrid, in Spain. The palace, which also served as a Franciscan monastery, was built during the reign of King John V (1707-1750). This sprawling complex is one of the most striking examples of palatial Baroque buildings in Portugal. The palace was built symmetrically to the central axis occupied by the basilica and continues longitudinally through the main façade to the two main towers. The buildings of the convent are located behind the main facade. The building also includes the main library, with approximately 40,000 rare books. The basilica is adorned with several Italian statues and includes six historic organs and two sets of 92 bells.

Magnificent St. George's castle- one of the symbols of Portugal. The castle is more than a thousand years old, and many historical events are associated with it. The castle is very ancient and has centuries of history. More than once he was a witness and participant in many historical events. The castle played the role of not only an important fortress, but also a port, due to its favorable location.

Resorts

lisbon riviera Costa do Sol ("sunny Beach") is a whole strip of resorts stretching from the mouth of the Tagus River north along the Atlantic coast. Starting from Carcavelos, sandy beaches in the Cascais region give way to sheer rocky shores surrounded pine groves. This is an aristocratic area with numerous green villas, hotels and well-groomed golf courses, small secluded beaches and many small picturesque villages.

Well-known Cascais is largest center tourism and shopping on the coast. Attractive "old town" with lively pedestrian zone, numerous cafes and restaurants, an autodrome, a beautiful city park and the castle of the Aristocrat, the Museum of Condes de Castro-Guimaraes, the Maritime Museum, the churches of the Assumption and Nossa Señora doug Navegantes (XVIII century), the chapels of Nossa Señora da Guia (XV century) and San Sebastian (XVI-XVII centuries), a fortress of the XVII century, as well as the area of ​​​​the sand dunes of Guinsha with Praia do Guincho beach is real paradise for windsurfers.

home resort area Portugal - Algarve. This is an almost continuous strip of beaches, stretching from east to west from Monte Gordo to Lagos (about 150 km.) And protected from northern winds mountain ranges. The western part of the coast is famous for its amazingly beautiful rocky beaches, while the eastern part is quite flat and has excellent sandy coasts. The Algarve is an ideal place for active and beach holidays, there are all conditions for sports activities throughout the year. The most popular are golf, tennis and all water sports sports, as well as horse riding and athletics.

Madeira("forest", port.) - an archipelago of volcanic origin. Mountain terraces ("balconies") rise from the coast to the central peak of Santana (1861 m.), which creates a unique landscape of the island. Sheer ocean cliffs, rocky pools, levada irrigation canals, tiny beaches and eucalyptus groves, almost untouched flora and fauna, extinct volcano craters and lava fields, an abundance of waterfalls, mountain rivers and streams make Madeira's landscape even more picturesque. Here expanse for lovers of fishing and hunting (from September to December), golf and trekking, windsurfing and diving. Tuna and pygmy shark hunting, tennis and horseback riding, the world-famous Madeira and excellent cuisine are very popular, but the most important thing in Madeira is nature, beaches and unusually clean air.

On Azores The recreation infrastructure is still rather poorly developed, but every year more and more guests visit these rocky islands in search of peace and solitude.

Portimao, the second largest city in the province, is proud of its famous beaches Alvor, Tres Irmaos and Praia da Rocha with the fortress of Santa Catarina de Ribamar, as well as the cathedral (XIV century), the Colegio church, the Roman ruins of the Villa Abikada (IV century), numerous fish restaurants and the Algarve casino ". 66 km. from Faro, half a dorge in Portimão, lie the ruins ancient necropolis Alcalar (1600 BC) and ruins of Roman settlements. Amazing landscapes of the resort Carvoeiro(60 km from Faro) with bizarre rocks, grottoes and caves were included in many advertising brochures about the country.

Founded by the Romans Estoril From time immemorial it has been a place of exile for crowned persons, and now it is a fashionable resort with many beaches, ancient churches, a lot of restaurants, shops and one of the largest casinos in Europe. Estoril is famous for its ancient fortresses on the rocks washed by the waters of the Atlantic - the Citadel and Boca de Inferno (Devil's fortress) are considered calling card Costa do Sol. Halfway from Cascais to Sintra lies the westernmost point of Europe - Cape Roca (Cabo da Roca), having visited which, you can get a certificate of visiting the most western point mainland and see the famous stele at an altitude of 140 m above sea level. In a storm, huge waves rise above the rocks, scattering into hundreds of rainbows and creating an unforgettable picture of these legendary places.

Portuguese Republic.

The name of the country comes from the city of Porto (lat. Portus Cale - "warm port").

Capital of Portugal. Lisbon.

Portugal Square. 92389 km2.

Population of Portugal. 10066 thousand people

Location of Portugal. Portugal is located in the extreme southwest in the western part of the Iberian Peninsula. She also owns the Azores and the island of Madeira, located in. In the north and east, Portugal borders on, in the south and west it is washed by the Atlantic Ocean.

Administrative divisions of Portugal. Portugal is divided into 22 districts, including 18 on the continent, and 2 autonomous regions, the Azores and the Madeira archipelago.

Form of government of Portugal. Republic.

Head of State of Portugal. President elected for a term of 5 years.

Supreme legislature of Portugal. Assembly of the Republic (unicameral parliament), term of office - 4 years.

Supreme executive body of Portugal. Government.

Major cities in Portugal. Porto, Coimbra, Braga, Evora.

Official language of Portugal. Portuguese.

Religion in Portugal. 97% - .

Ethnic composition of Portugal. 99% are Portuguese.

Currency of Portugal. Euro = 100 cents.