Portugal has no entrance exam.  But it is sneaking up on 900 years of existence.  Like a good glass of wine there are many flavors, and hues Last year we offered our tongue-in-cheek Portuguese citizenship exam. It gained a few comments, and stumped a few people. As a result, here is the 2nd round of “So you think you know Portugal.” And the questions just got a tad harder. Read more →

This happened with other European nations as well. But, in Portugal – once the dark night of fascism ended, the dictatorship was gone – but its propaganda remains. In fact, I often have to pause and explain to colleagues that calling Portugal’s golden age an “Age of Discovery” can come off as colonialism and racist. Read more →

The magnificent Christmas light decorations all over Funchal, together with the fantastic New Year’s Eve fireworks and activities make Madeira Island one of the most attractive ‘réveillon’ destinations, to which already so many people return every year to experience this special ambience over and over again. Read more →

One of Portugal's most colorful festivals is back in 2019, with centuries of pageantry and tradition! The “Festa dos Tabuleiros” has been scheduled to run from June 29th to July 8th, 2019 in the historic city of Tomar.  “Festa dos Tabuleiros,” or Festival of Trays, happens every four years or so and is unique in the world Read more →

Who passes through Alcobaça Do not stop there without going back Try as you might Read more →

The Tomar Synagogue has reopen to the public after 11 months of preservation work. The project included the conservation and restoration of the monument (plastering, covering, electrical, acoustics, creation of exhibitions). Read more →

In Portugal, there's a typical saying whenever someone leaves but forgets to close the door behind them. "és de Braga?" or Are you from Braga? is the common reaction. But some people have no idea why, here's a possible explanation Read more →

The Chapel of Bones is a small chapel, part of the Sao Francisco church in Évora. Decorated with human bones and scalps, it represents the fragility of live and reminds the believers of their mortality. Built in the 17th century, it is now open to visitors. Read more →

On the top of a hill you can not miss the 5k fortress that embraces the city of Valença and pronounces its History. A city by the Minho river, that marks a natural border with Spain, it was a place of political and strategic importance in the early 13th century. It was built under the King Sancho I rule due to his military aspirations of conquering territories in Galicia and is now home for pilgrims and visitors form all over the world. Read more →

The Portuguese Easter celebration includes the visiting of Christ on the cross to the families's houses for blessings. Compasso is the name of the small catholic group that, headed by a Judge that carries the cross, goes through every town's street ringing the bells announcing the Christ's resurrection. Read more →