Portugal is a country in Southern Europe, Europe with a rich history, unique culture and some remarkable records. Here are the most interesting facts about Portugal that most people don't know.
Portugal has the world's oldest operating bookstore — Livraria Bertrand in Lisbon, open since 1732. It produced the greatest navigators of the Age of Discovery, with Vasco da Gama opening the sea route to India in 1498.
Portugal is the oldest nation-state in Europe, with borders unchanged since 1139.
Portuguese is spoken by 260 million people across 9 countries.
Portugal invented the technique of ocean navigation that changed the world.
Port wine and pastéis de nata (custard tarts) were both invented in Portugal.
Portugal has the world's oldest operating bookstore — Livraria Bertrand in Lisbon, open since 1732. It produced the greatest navigators of the Age of Discovery, with Vasco da Gama opening the sea route to India in 1498.
Portugal is known for several remarkable places that attract visitors and define the country's identity:
A 16th-century Manueline fortress from which Vasco da Gama set sail for India
A UNESCO mountain town of fairy-tale royal palaces near Lisbon
A UNESCO wine region of breathtaking terraced vineyards along the ancient Douro
Lisbon's masterpiece of Manueline architecture celebrating the Age of Discovery
Portugal has the world's oldest operating bookstore — Livraria Bertrand in Lisbon, open since 1732. It produced the greatest navigators of the Age of Discovery, with Vasco da Gama opening the sea route to India in 1498.
The capital of Portugal is Lisbon.
Portugal has a population of approximately 10.3M.
The official language of Portugal is Portuguese.
Portugal gained independence in 1143.
Portugal uses the Euro (€).