Portuguese Culture

Discover Porto's rich architectural journey, from its Romanesque beginnings to its modern, avant-garde landmarks. Explore how the city's iconic structures narrate a story of historical depth and contemporary innovation.

Almeida Garrett, born in Porto in 1799, was a pivotal figure in 19th-century Portuguese literature and politics. Renowned for his works "Frei Luís de Sousa" and "Viagens na Minha Terra," he played a crucial role in the Liberal Revolution and the development of Portuguese theater and dramatic arts.

The Serralves Foundation, or Fundação Serralves, is a prestigious cultural institution in northern Portugal renowned for its contributions to art and landscape. The Foundation encompasses several notable sites: the Museum of Contemporary Art, the Art Deco House, the Manoel de Oliveira Cinema House, and Serralves Park, which includes an 18-hectare area with a Treetop Walk offering panoramic views.

The São João festivity in Porto is one of the city's most traditional and vibrant celebrations, held between June 23th and 24th, coinciding with the summer solstice and dedicated to St. John the Baptist. This municipal holiday blends Catholic and pre-Christian pagan rituals, initially focusing on religious processions and masses. Participants engage in unique traditions like teasing with plastic hammers, releasing hot air balloons, and lighting bonfires to ward off evil spirits, while "manjerico" plants symbolize love and friendship. The festivities culminate in a spectacular fireworks display along the River Douro, with the city bustling with concerts, outdoor dining, and a lively communal atmosphere.

During the Ribbon Burning week (Queima das Fitas), the academic procession is a major highlight and attracts a lot of tourists.

Porto’s gastronomy is widely known both nationally and internationally. Its cuisine is strongly influenced by the traditions and customs of northern Portugal and is full of traditional dishes from Minho to Trás-os-Montes.

The Carnation Revolution, also known as the Portuguese Revolution of 1974, marked a pivotal moment in Portugal’s history, signaling the end of the authoritarian Estado Novo regime and the dawn of a new era of democracy. On April 25th, 1974, the country witnessed a peaceful military coup led by the Armed Forces Movement (MFA), initiating profound social, political, and cultural changes.

Portugal is a country filled with traditions, some of which remain virtually unchanged throughout the years. Thanks to its strong Catholic roots, it’s not surprising that many religious celebrations take place every year from the north to the south of Portugal. Among these celebrations is Easter, a time when devout Catholics all over the world…

Portugal is widely recognized today for its gastronomy, climate, hospitality, culture, and its commitment to preserving its history and traditions. One unique way the Portuguese celebrate these is through the art of the famous ceramic tiles, known as “azulejos” in Portuguese. Portuguese ceramics represent a strong expression of cultural heritage and stand as a unique…

Christmas is surely one of the most eagerly awaited times of the year, due to its typical dishes and festive traditions, some of which are centuries old. When it comes to traditional Christmas food, Portugal celebrates it with a gastronomic tradition of authentic flavors. The combination of savory dishes with a variety of delicious sweet…