Culture

Have you ever seen young people in black cloaks walking around the streets in Portugal? Learn about the origin of this tradition and how it inspired a very famous author.

Did you know that Portugal is the world’s largest producer of cork?

A hidden gem in the center of Coimbra, Sereia Garden is a beautiful park filled with interesting sculptures, many species of trees, and its fountain, an integral part of a long-standing university tradition.

Olive oil is produced extensively in Portugal and has been an integral part of the history and culture. You’ll be surprised by the number of diverse uses for this precious oil. Here’s a longer Shorty for you (a Longy?) at about 8 minutes!

Learn more about Simone de Oliveira, an iconic Portuguese singer and actress, who is known for her strength and boldness in the face of adversity.

The 25th of April is Portugal’s Freedom Day! Learn more about the revolution that restored freedom to the people of Portugal.

If you’ve ever been to Portugal, you have certainly noticed the beautiful tilework that covers many of the buildings throughout the country. Learn more about how these “azulejos” have played a role in the history and culture of Portugal.

Easter is widely celebrated in Portugal as a time for the family to get together and enjoy an abundance of delicious food. Learn more about the history of the holiday and how it is observed today.

“Calçada portuguesa”, also known as Portuguese mosaic, refers to the decorative cobblestone patterns you see lining the sidewalks throughout the country. Learn more about this impressive pavement art that has become a trademark of Portuguese cities.

Learn more about Fado, the music style that best captures what it means to be Portuguese.

Welcome to Torres Vedras Carnival, a lively festivity that remains faithful to the tradition of celebrating Carnival in Portugal. Learn more about how the Portuguese like to party during this exciting multi-day event!

Fado is a Portuguese musical style loved by people from all over the world! Learn more about its themes and possible origins.

Feliz Ano Novo! Find out how the Portuguese like to celebrate New Year’s Eve.

There’s a story behind Bolo Rei, a colourful cake that is always present at Christmas Eve dinner. Discover the meaning behind each component of this festive treat!

‘Tis the season… to spread misinformation about the origins of Christmas and Santa Claus! In this special holiday episode, Rui and Joel explore the food and other traditions of Christmas in Portugal, while featuring one of our latest Shorties, “a Consoada“. Boas festas a todos! 🎄

Christmas dinner is a sumptuous meal that brings the whole family to the table for socialization and celebration. Learn more about the treats and traditions of Christmas Eve in Portugal.

Expressões Idiomáticas Idiomatic expressions, or idioms, are expressions that you shouldn’t interpret literally. Portuguese idioms have a symbolic meaning, which is rarely maintained upon literal translation into other languages. These expressions reflect the customs and history of the country and are part of all conversations of the Portuguese, rich or poor, from North to South of Portugal. They often incorporate slang words and can be used to convey irony, exaggeration, or impatience, or even just to save time.

Or, as we say in Portugal:

Poupar o nosso latim Spare our Latin

This expression, Poupar latim Spare Latin, is itself idiomatic, and is based on the fact that Portuguese is a language originating from Latin.

During the 1755 earthquake, two convents collapsed in Lisbon, one with the name Carmo and one with the name Trindade. It was here that the expression Cair o Carmo e a Trindade appeared, which initially implied terror and panic. Although it still retains that meaning, nowadays it is often used in an ironic tone, when you fear the consequences of something unimportant. For example:

Ui, parece que caiu o Carmo e a Trindade! Yikes, it looks like the crap hit the fan

Portugal has several traditional folk dances, each expressing the soul of the people from different regions throughout the country.

Maria and José are a couple from Porto who traveled to Coimbra on a tour organized by the parish council. After a disappointing experience, will they be bold enough to complain to the mayor?

Maria do Maria is the most important work of the filmmaker Leitão de Barros and a fundamental point in the history of Portuguese cinema. Learn more about this classic silent film from the 1930s.

Tomar is the perfect destination for those who enjoy a charming getaway in a city full of history. Every 4 years, Tomar attracts thousands of people for a lively festivity that brings colours and happiness to the streets.

Daily routines: tedious for some, but essential for others. Embrace our customs by following along with a typical Portuguese daily routine.

Learn how to order a coffee in Portugal, a task more complex than it seems! There are several types available and the lingo can vary from city to city. Don’t miss out on Portugal’s coffee culture, an essential part of daily life!

Portugal is a very special country that brings so much unique value to the world. See why “quality over quantity” is an important notion in appreciating all that this country has to offer.