Portugal is an increasingly diverse place, with communities with roots from around the world. Yet one of Portugal's oldest diverse communities is often left out of travel blogs: The Romani. Portugal has an often hidden world of Romani heritage waiting to be seen. As you explore - it is worth the time to look for and understand the Romani influence. 

The Romani community, called Ciganos in Portuguese, originated from India, and fled to the Middle East and Europe. But they faced persecution due to cultural, linguistic, and religious differences. In 2023 President Marcelo Rebelo de Sousa spoke in favor of a reflection on the 500 years of persecutions of Portuguese Romani:   "This is an occasion to remember the suffering and injustice endured by Portuguese Cigano women and men over these five centuries, but also to celebrate more than half a millennium of Portuguese Cigano life and its contribution to national culture and identity. The initiative will help build the future."

The first reports of the presence of Romani or Roma People in Portugal, coming via Spain, date back to the second half of the 15th century, around the year 1512. Between the 16th and 19th centuries, there were various attempts at total or partial assimilation, as well as compulsory cultural integration of this unique ethnic group. Portuguese citizenship was finally granted to the Roma in the Constitution of 1822, recognizing them as full-fledged Portuguese citizens. Living in an unique and traditional way, they still suffer prejudice, discrimination, and mistreatment. Their contribution to Portugal is found in music, painting, and literature. But there is little reference to them on Visit Portugal.

Lisbon's Romani Quarter: Begin your journey in Lisbon, where the Alfama and Mouraria districts that once harbored a Romani community, partially displaced by the boom of tourism. Few signs remain, except the music of the Fado. While Fado has a rich tapestry of influences, the Romani contribution stands out for its emotional intensity, melodic nuances, and cultural elements that have become integral to the essence of this essential Portuguese music genre. One of the greatest faddists was Maria Severa Onofriana. She was born in 1820 in Lisbon of Romani roots. Severa was a courtesan who found fame for her singing of the fado in local taverns, where she also showcased her skills with the Portuguese guitar. Known for her charisma, she had various lovers, one of whom was Francisco de Paula Portugal e Castro, the 13th Count of Vimioso.

Severa's life was cut short when she died of tuberculosis in 1846, at the age of 26 on the Rua do Capelão in the Mouraria. She was laid to rest in an unmarked grave in the Alto de São João Cemetery. Despite her relatively short life, Maria Severa Onofriana left an indelible mark on the history of fado and is remembered as a significant figure in the cultural landscape of Lisbon.

Festival of Saint Sara in Setúbal: Plan your visit to coincide with Romani festivals held throughout the year. These celebrations showcase the Romani flair for music, dance, and culinary delights. The Festival of Saint Sara in Setúbal is a highlight, honoring the Romani patron saint, and provides an opportunity to witness traditional rituals and vibrant processions.

Évora's Romani Enclave: In Évora and other towns and cities across the Alentejo there are often Romani enclaves. Look for Romani influences in markets. Try the local rich Cigano cake (made with black-seed squash and chocolate).

As you explore Portugal's Romani culture and sites, you'll find a hidden world of traditions, music, and history hoping to be unveiled. The culture of the Romani adds to the cultural diversity of this ancient country. You just need to look for it.