BON DIA PORTUGAL

BON DIA PORTUGAL

Portugal, separated from the rest of Europe by mountain range, Serra da Estela and stretching to the shores of the Atlantic Ocean, is a country of history, architecture, amazing scenery, cork tree plantations and wonderful souvenirs made out of cork.

Cork is a pride of Portugal. Shoes, bags, accessories, jewelry, umbrellas, even hats are made out of cork. Portugal manufactures quality footwear made out of leather and cork to combat markets swamped with cheap imitations. Cork tree plantations cover a large portion of Portuguese landscape together with almond, fig and olive tree plantations.

Lisbon, the capital, is a monument to history with famous towers and gates on the Belem Riverfront and the sculpture commemorating Henry the Navigator. Back in the 15th century, the Age of Great Discoveries, it was the playground of marine explorers and the starting point of their journeys into the unknown. 

Christopher Columbus departed from here back in 1492 on his discovery passage.

Coimbra was the ancient capital of Portugal between 12^th and 13^th century. Its University was build in 1290. The University of Coimbra is one of the oldest academic institutions in Europe. 

Now Coimbra offers archaeological structures of the Roman Era, aqueduct, architecture and churches.

Batalha, the ancient grounds of wars, one of them the famous battle of 1385 between the Portuguese and the Spanish, can be proud of its monastery Mosterio de Batalha.

Fatima is a well known pilgrimage site. Many visitors come to the Sanctuary of Fatima to worship and pray. It is a moving experience to partake in the positive atmosphere of believers celebrating appearance of the Virgin Mary to three shepherd children in 1917 in Fatima.

Sintra is the picture of architecture of the rich who built their summer residences in this scenic countryside. The palaces add historical value to scenic countryside. Sintra with its Pena and Sintra National

Palace has been declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Cascais used to be a fishing village until discovered and made a vacation destination by the kings in 1870. It still is a holiday destination with its sandy beaches of the Atlantic Ocean.

In spite of being occupied from the early days by the Romans, then Muslim Moors, Visigoths and Spanish it became an independent country and expanded to Africa and Asia in the Age of Exploration. 

Portugal is a remarkable country that managed to preserve its culture, cuisine and art.

A Fado concert is a spiritual experience. The song & music dating back to early 1800s expresses loss and longing, puts one into a melancholic but appreciative mood. Many songs are devoted to love of this beautiful country or its wonderful cities and towns.

Stylish Portugal invites visitors to experience its history and culture, scenic Atlantic coast, grandiose architecture and delicious cuisine.