Portugal is a wonderful country with many beautiful landscapes and many interesting facts that you may not have known. Wherever you go, you can also clearly feel the national identity with the typical and rich and diverse customs and traditions. In addition, the Portuguese people are also extremely friendly and hospitable. If you are planning to travel this summer of 2020, Portugal is not a bad choice. With Travel Your Way, let’s find out 10 most interesting facts about Portugal !

List 10 most interesting facts about Portugal

1. Half of the world once belonged to Portugal.

In 1494, Spain and Portugal signed the Tordesillas Agreement to delimit the zone of influence and colonial exploited lands. In particular, Portugal has the right to rule the eastern half of the world, including Brazil, Africa and Asia.

2. The first country drink tea in Europe.

Portugal is the first country in Europe to drink tea. It can be said that Portugal played a big role in “promoting” this drink to other places along the trade routes of the country in the 16th century.

3. Portugal is the oldest country in Europe.

Founded in 1143, Portugal is the oldest country in Europe. It also has one of the oldest empires, which has existed for nearly 6 centuries and has had a constant border since 1139.

See more Top 7 Most Beautiful Cities In Portugal 2020 here !

4. Being the first colonial country to abolish slavery.

Portugal abolished slavery in 1761 – more than half a century before other colonial capitalist countries like Britain, France, Spain or even the United States.

5. Portugal is the country with the oldest bookstore in the world.

Bertrand bookstore was founded in 1732, located in the capital of Portugal – Lisbon, is the oldest clean store in the world.

6. Portugal has Europe’s oldest university.

Coimbra University was founded in 1290. Currently, the university has about 20,000 students, and is home to one of the largest community of international students in Portugal.

7. Portugal owns the longest bridge in Europe.

The Vasco Gama da Gama bridge in Lisbon is 10.5 miles (17 km) long and is the longest bridge in Europe to date.

8. The largest producer of cocks.

Portugal produces 70% of all cocks worldwide, making it the largest producer of cocks in the world. It is also home to the world’s largest lumber forests. The main importing countries of Portugal are Germany, the United Kingdom and the United States.

9. Portugal owns the world’s leading surfing beach.

Portugal has a coastline of 497 miles (800 km) and can surf up to 364 days a year.

10. The country of folk dances.

Portugal has a treasure of songs, music and folk dances. Among the popular folk dances are Fandango and Corridinho and many different dances. The songs and dances from all over Portugal have been woven into the beautiful dances that we see today.

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