Unpacking Portugal: Exploring the Cultural Norms that Make the Country Unique
Portugal is a beautiful country with numerous cultural norms that make it stand out. Whether it’s their famous cuisine, historical architecture, or unique celebrations, Portugal has a lot to offer. In this article, we’ll explore some of the cultural norms that make Portugal special.
Food and Drink
Portugal is famous for its delicious cuisine. One of the most popular dishes is called Bacalhau, which is made with dried and salted cod fish. Portuguese also love their seafood, with dishes like octopus salad and grilled sardines being widely enjoyed. Portugal is also famous for its wine, particularly port wine, which is a sweet, fortified wine hailing from the Douro Valley.
Bullfighting
Bullfighting is a controversial and traditional event in Portugal. Unlike Spanish bullfighting, Portuguese bullfighting doesn’t end with the death of the bull. Instead, the bull is herded back into its pen after the fight. The bullfighting arena in Lisbon is considered one of the oldest and most prestigious in the world.
Festivals and Celebrations
Portugal is a country that knows how to celebrate. From Carnival to Santo Antonio, the streets of Portugal come alive with music, dancing, and costumes. One of the most famous celebrations is the Festa de Sao Joao, which takes place in Porto. During this celebration, people hit each other with plastic hammers and dance in the streets.
Tile Art
Portugal is also famous for its beautiful and intricate tile art. The country is decorated with blue and white tiles called azulejos. These tiles have been used for centuries to decorate everything from palaces to train stations. Visitors to Portugal can view tile art at famous locations like Sao Bento Train Station in Porto and the Palace of the Dukes of Braganza in Guimaraes.
Conclusion
Portugal is a country rich in culture and tradition. From its delicious cuisine to its unique festivals and celebrations, there is always something to explore. Portugal’s history and customs create a unique experience that travelers won’t find anywhere else. Whether you’re interested in food, art, or history, Portugal has something for everyone.
