Portugal is one of the oldest nation states in Europe, with the distinction of having been a great seafaring nation in the past. It's complex history included a period of 60 years of Spanish rule from 1580, invasion by Napoleon in 1807, internal power struggles, military coup and 40 years of dictatorship by Antonio Salazar.
Most of us have learnt of the voyages of Vasco da Gama and his discovery trips to India and Brazil. Portugal prospered during this period of trade with the East but its golden age came to an abrupt end when Spain invaded in 1580. When Portugal regained independence from the Spanish, the discovery of gold in Brazil helped to restore its fortunes. Unfortunately, when Napoleon invaded in 1807 and with the loss of Brazil, the Portugese became impoverished once again.
Through joining the EU in 1986, Portugal has received injection of funds to help it revive its economy. This small country has a landscape that's immensely varied, ranging from the rural and traditional Minho and Tras-os-Montes regions in the north to the beautiful sandy beaches and holiday resort region of the Algarve in the south.
Steeped in ancient traditions, Portugal has lots of festivals and religious celebrations that travellers can experience, not to mention the many ports and wines to taste and beaches that this sun-drenched country has to offer.
