Is Portugal on your travel bucket list? Portugal is a country rich in beauty, culture, and delicious cuisine, with attractions ranging from Lisbon's yellow trams to its stunning coastlines. Here are ten intriguing facts about Portugal that will inspire you to place it at the top of your travel list.
1. Portugal Is the Oldest Nation in Europe
Portugal was founded in 1143, and its borders were established in the mid-13th century, making it one of the oldest nations in Europe. Portugal is rich in history and has the oldest bookstore operating. If you're a book lover, visit Livraria Bertrand's location in Chiado.
2. Portugal's Tiles Tell a Story
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Portugal is known for its "azulejos," painted ceramic tilework, often with blue and white motifs. You can find these tiles in churches, houses, and more. They mix beauty and functionality, helping maintain temperature control in homes. Many tell a deeper story by displaying iconic moments of Portugal's past on the tiles through elaborate drawings.
3. Its Iconic Yellow Tram Is Actually from the US
If you're considering visiting Portugal, you've likely seen pictures of its iconic yellow tram in Lisbon. But did you know the vehicle originated from the US? The first tramway in 1873 was initially a horsecar line. The horsecars were called americanos because they came from the US. They were later modified to be pulled by cables instead of animals before finally being converted to electric traction, leading to the iconic tram we now know.
4. Portugal Had Unconventional Rulers, Including a Dead Queen
Portugal's history is quite unconventional. Luís Felipe was a king for just 20 minutes. Assassins attacked the royal family while they were riding in a carriage. They killed King Carlos and injured Luís. Luís became king in that brief moment before he succumbed to his wounds.
Portugal also had a dead queen. King Pedro declared his murdered lover, Inês, queen posthumously. He claimed they had secretly married before her death, and he exhumed her body, compelling the court to pledge allegiance by kissing her dress.
5. There Was Once an Earthquake in Lisbon
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When you think of Portugal, you might picture warm, calm beaches, but did you know the country experienced a devastating earthquake? The Great Lisbon Earthquake happened in 1755 and caused large fissures, a tsunami, and a firestorm due to knocked-over candles. Approximately 40,000 people lost their lives, and 85% of Lisbon's buildings were destroyed. This disaster led to significant political and economic changes in the country and seismology development.
6. Pastéis de Nata Were Created to Prevent Waste
On top of its rich history, Portugal is also known for its food and drink. Its most well-known food is a pastry called Pastel de nata, a tart filled with egg custard. Pastel de nata was initially created to prevent food waste. Nuns and monks used egg whites as starch for their clothes and needed to find a way to use the egg yolks. They created these delicious tarts with leftover egg yolk and started selling them to raise funds. When the monastery closed, they sold the recipe to a sugar refinery that would open Pastéis de Belém, which still operates today.
7. The World's Largest Omelet Was Made In Portugal
Another fun fact related to food? The world's largest omelet was cooked in Portugal. Portuguese chefs made an omelet with 145,000 free-range eggs, weighing over 14,000 lbs, for a festival in Santarém, Portugal, on 11 August 2012.
8. Portugal Is The Largest Producer of Cork
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Finally, when it comes to drinks, Portugal is number one. Portugal is the largest producer of cork in the world. It produces over 50% of the world's cork, and over 70% is used as wine bottle corks. Next time you buy a bottle of wine, know there is a high probability it's cork from Portugal!
9. Portugal Has 17 UNESCO Sites
UNESCO sites are areas with cultural, historical, or scientific significance. Portugal has 17 sites, making it an incredible place to visit. You can find a list of the 17 UNESCO sites here. They range from convents to forests and vineyards.
10. The Azores Are a Part of Portugal
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Have you ever heard of the Azores? This beautiful island is in the North Atlantic Ocean, around 1400 km from Lisbon, but it is part of Portugal. Our Azores Islands blog covers everything you need to know about this hidden gem.
More Than Just Fun Facts
If these fun facts about Portugal have motivated you to book your trip but need more help preparing, we've got you covered. Here are our top Portugal blogs to help you organize your visit:
- Best Time To Visit Portugal
- 10 Days in Portugal: The Ultimate Itinerary
- Portugal Travel Guide: Everything You Need To Know
Get ready to see the wonders of Portugal for yourself! Whether riding Lisbon's iconic tram or visiting one of the 17 UNESCO sites, you'll want to stay connected while exploring.
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