Carlos Paredes (Coimbra 1925 – Lisbon 2004) was one of the greatest Portuguese guitarists, widely known as the “Master of the Portuguese guitar”. Son of Artur Paredes, another great name on the instrument, Carlos was born in Coimbra where he was naturally influenced by the city’s musical and academic environment. From an early age, he […]
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Dom Sebastião I of Portugal (1554-1578) was the sixteenth king of Portugal, known for his mysterious disappearance in the Battle of Alcácer-Quibir, in 1578 and for the myth that formed around his figure, the so called “Sebastianism”. He was born in Lisbon on January 20, 1554, and became king at a very young age, just […]
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São Martinho, celebrated in Portugal on November 11th, is one of the most cherished autumn traditions in the country and is deeply rooted in Portuguese culture and rural life. This celebration honours Saint Martin of Tours, a Roman soldier turned monk, known for his act of charity in sharing his cloak with a beggar during […]
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Infante D. Henrique, also known as O Navegador (the Navigator), was born on March 4, 1394, in Porto. Son of King D. João I and Queen Filipa de Lencastre, he played a crucial role in the Age of Portuguese Discoveries where his vision and support were fundamental to Portuguese maritime expansion. D. Henrique established A […]
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The Queima das Fitas (literally “Burning of the Ribbons”) is a traditional event in Portuguese universities, particularly in Porto and Coimbra and in Porto it typically takes place in early May, being a week-long celebration that marks the end of the academic year for university students. The event’s name derives its significance from the colourful […]
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The São João, in Porto, also known as Noite de São João, is one of the city’s most exciting and beloved events. Celebrated annually on June 23rd and 24th, this festival honors St. John the Baptist and is deeply rooted in both pagan and Christian traditions. It has been a cornerstone of Porto’s cultural heritage […]
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Licor Beirão is a popular Portuguese liqueur known for its distinctive flavour and rich history. First produced in the late 19th century in the Lousã region of central Portugal, Licor Beirão’s exact recipe is a closely guarded secret, passed down through generations. It is produced at Quinta do Meiral, a 12-hectare property in the middle […]
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Celebrated on June 10th the Dia de Portugal commemorates the death of Luís de Camões in 1580, Portugal’s biggest poet and a key figure in the Portuguese culture and identity. Officially called Dia de Portugal, de Camões e das Comunidades Portuguesas (Day of Portugal, Camões, and the Portuguese Communities), this national holiday honours Portuguese history, […]
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Ginjinha, also known simply as Ginja, is a Portuguese liquer made from sour cherries. This traditional drink is deeply rooted in Portuguese culture, particularly in the regions of Lisbon, Alcobaça, and Óbidos, where its history dates back to the 19th century. The municipality of Óbidos has a unique microclimate, allowing the region to grow the […]
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“Serralves em Festa” is an extraordinary annual cultural event held at the Fundação de Serralves (Serralves Foundation) in Porto. Recognized as one of Europe’s largest contemporary arts festivals, it transforms the Serralves grounds into a vibrant hub of artistic expression for 50 continuous hours, typically over a weekend in late May or early June. The […]
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