Approximately 32% of Portuguese people can speak and understand English, while 24% can speak and understand French. Despite Spanish being mutually intelligible in a sense that most Portuguese understand it written and/or spoken, only 9% of the Portuguese population can speak it fluently.

Portuguese and Spanish, although closely related Romance languages, differ in many aspects of their phonology, grammar and lexicon. Portuguese was 31%, making it the second furthest language from Latin after French (44% distance). The most obvious differences are in pronunciation.

In recent years, both countries have enjoyed a much friendlier relationship. Together, the two countries are full-time members of the European Union, Eurozone, Schengen Area and NATO. Portugal and Spain had been rival sea powers as early as the 14th century.

On June 7, 1494, the governments of Spain and Portugal agreed to the Treaty of Tordesillas, named for the city in Spain in which it was created. The Treaty of Tordesillas neatly divided the “New World” of the Americas between the two superpowers. All lands west of that line were claimed by Spain.

Portugal was officially an autonomous state, but in actuality, the country was in a personal union with the Spanish crown from 1580 to 1640.

Spanish invasion of Portugal (1762)

According to the 2020 edition of the EU Coalition Explorer, Portugal ranks in 18th place in its overall influence, responsiveness, contacts, and shared interests. It is, therefore, a mid-ranking country. With the exception of Spain and Italy, few fellow EU member states view Portugal as a privileged partner.

Portugal and England have the oldest diplomatic alliance in the world. Portugal is one of the world’s top surf spots. The country has a coastline that spans 497 miles (800 kilometers) and is said to have 364 days of surf. Lisbon was struck by one of the most powerful earthquakes in European history on November 1, 1755.

The best time to visit Portugal is in spring (March-May), when the country is in bloom and waking after the winter. You could also go in fall (between September and October) when the sun is still shining, the weather is warm, and many of the crowds have dispersed.

8 Fun Facts You Never Knew About Portugal

• As one of the oldest nations in Europe, Portugal came into existence in 1139.
• Portuguese is the official language of 9 countries.
• Lisbon was almost destroyed by an earthquake, followed by a tsunami 40 minutes later.
• The oldest bookstore in the world is in Lisbon.
• Over half the world’s cork comes from Portugal.

10 Locally Made Souvenirs to Buy in Portugal

• Portuguese wine. Portugal is the world’s top port wine producer.
• Cork products. In souvenir shops, street stalls and malls throughout Portugal, you’ll find cork products.
• Azulejos.
• Pottery.
• Rooster of Barcelos (Galo de Barcelos)
• Embroidery.
• Shoes.
• Canned sardines.

Old Cock of Barcelos

cod

Bacalhau

6 Fish to Avoid

• Bluefin Tuna. In December 2009, the World Wildlife Fund put the bluefin tuna on its “10 for 2010” list of threatened species, alongside the giant panda, tigers, and leatherback turtles.
• Chilean Sea Bass (aka Patagonian Toothfish)
• Grouper.
• Monkfish.
• Orange Roughy.
• Salmon (farmed)

Traditional bacalhoada or bacalao, a Portuguese salt cod stew made with salt cod, potatoes, onions, hard boiled eggs, olives, and lots of olive oil. Elise founded Simply Recipes in 2003 and led the site until 2019. We found the salt cod at a local Italian specialty food market.

Norway

Cod is one of the most common and most popular fish options we put on our plates and in our bowls. With thick meat that flakes into juicy, bite-sized pieces and a mild taste that complements virtually any flavor, it is a versatile ingredient, beloved by even the most fish-averse eaters.