Portugal is a small country in size, but large in its history, culture and influence. Situated at the westernmost tip of Europe, it is known for its central role in the Age of Discovery, when Portuguese navigators such as Vasco da Gama and Fernando de Magalhães expanded the horizons of the known world.
Portugal's best achievements:
Maritime Discoveries: Perhaps Portugal's greatest achievement is its role as a pioneer in maritime exploration. In the 15th century, under the patronage of figures such as Infante D. Henrique, Portuguese navigators mapped large portions of the world, establishing trade routes and colonies in Africa, Asia and South America.
Cultural Heritage: Portugal is rich in historical and cultural heritage. From the Jerónimos Monastery and the Belém Tower, both in Lisbon and considered World Heritage by UNESCO, to medieval villages and vibrant cities such as Porto and Coimbra, the country preserves a unique architectural heritage.
Global Influence of the Portuguese Language: Despite its size, Portugal has a language spoken by around 250 million people around the world, being the official language of countries on four continents, such as Brazil, Angola, Mozambique, Timor-Leste, among others.
Wine and Gastronomy: Port wine and Vinho Verde are world famous, but Portuguese gastronomy is much broader, highlighting cod, custard tarts and seafood dishes.
Culture and Fado: Fado, a melancholic musical style, is UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity, and literary culture also stands out with names such as Luís de Camões and Fernando Pessoa.
Contributions to Science: Portugal gave the world renowned scientists and explorers. More recently, the country has invested heavily in science and technology, becoming an attractive hub for technological start-ups and scientific research.
What makes Portugal special:
Quality of Life: Portugal is known for its mild climate, one of the lowest crime rates in Europe and a work-life balance that attracts many foreigners to live and work in the country.
Nature and Landscapes: From the golden beaches of the Algarve, to the mountains of Serra da Estrela, to the plains of the Alentejo and the verdant landscapes of the Azores and Madeira, Portugal offers an incredible diversity of natural landscapes.
Welcoming People: The Portuguese are often described as friendly, warm and welcoming, which contributes to Portugal's image as a safe and pleasant destination.
Stability and Security: Portugal is consistently ranked as one of the safest countries in the world, which, combined with its efficient public healthcare system and relatively affordable cost of living, makes it an attractive place to live.
Portugal is not an "almost perfect" country in the literal sense, as it faces challenges like any other country (for example, the issue of young emigration and some economic development problems). However, the balance between quality of life, rich history, vibrant culture, and its pioneering role in the world make it a truly special and admirable place.