Interesting Facts about Portugal

Portugal Interesting Facts

Portugal, officially the Portuguese Republic, is a country in Europe. Here are some interesting facts about Portugal:

Portugal is one of the oldest nations in Europe.

Portugal is known as the country of tiles.

The Vasco da Gama Bridge was the longest bridge in Europe before the construction of the Crimean Bridge.

Portugal is a European leader in sustainable energy. Portugal generates its energy through renewable sources such as hydro, wind, and solar power.

About 8 million people travel to the site of the miracle of Fatima every year.

The first country that decriminalized all drugs is Portugal. Portugal decriminalized all drugs in 2001.

The maximum prison sentence in Portugal is 25 years.

The capital city of Lisbon has been hit by one of the largest natural disasters in world history. On November 1, 1755, an earthquake struck Lisbon, destroying almost the entire city.

The largest cork forest is located in Portugal.

The oldest operating bookstore in the world is located in the capital city of Lisbon. Livraria Bertrand located in Chiado and it holds the Guinness world record for the world’s oldest bookstore still in operation. It founded in 1732.

Lisbon older than Rome. Rome is considered the birthplace of modern civilization, however it has been discovered that Lisbon actually predates Rome. Officially a city since 1147, archaeologists have found evidence that the area in which Lisbon is located dates back to 1200 BC.

Portuguese is now the official language of 9 countries around the world. The largest of which is Brazil.

Portugal and England are one of the oldest alliance in the world, its signed in 1373 by King James III of England and King Ferdinand and Queen Eleanor of Portugal.

Portugal is one of the world’s top surf spots.

A Portuguese explorer Ferdinand Magellan was the first to complete a full journey around the earth.

Piri-piri originated in Portugal. Chili sauce is often generously poured over the nation's favorite churrasco chicken.

Portugal is the westernmost point of Europe.

Portugal is home to 17 UNESCO World Heritage Sites.

Portugal is one of the most peaceful countries in Europe.

Portugal is the third country in the world with the most fish consumption, behind Japan and Iceland.

Rome Invaded The Iberian Peninsula In 219 BC.

The most famous dessert in Portugal is the quiche.

The Highest Mountain In Portugal Is Mount Pico.

Portugal shares land borders with only one country. Here is the country that borders Portugal: Spain.