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Most of the public holidays in Portugal are related to the Catholic traditions and the historic events of a national importance. All in all, Portuguese people are very good in organizing celebrations and strong adherence to customs, preserved by their ancestors.

Ano Novo, or New Year, is full of different celebrations, which mostly occur on the streets. Of course, there are some differences between citizens and rurals, but all the people keep the same obligatory tradition – cleaning windows so they could shine.

Easter holidays have also distinctive features, encouraging massive pilgrimages. For instance, in Ourém locals often stage the Evangelical events of martyrdom of Jesus Christ on Good Friday, which cannot but draw the attention of visitors. On Easter all the churches are decorated in white flowers and gather all the people for a festive mass. The biggest celebrations occur in Braga – the Catholic capital of Portugal.

April 25th is a holiday of national importance – Liberty Day (Dia da Liberdade), which is aimed to commemorate the events of Carnation Revolution and failure of Antonio Salazar regime in 1974. This day is full of street ceremonies and open air celebrations. The Bloodless bullfights are also a part of this holiday. In contrast, Portuguese people also celebrate the Republic Day on October 5th since 1910, the date of Portuguese monarchy downfall. On December 1st the Independence Day is celebrated (honoring the Independence from Spain in 1650s).

Since 1580 the Portugal Day is celebrated on June 10th, coincided to the death date of Luis de Camoes, famous Portuguese poet. He wrote Os Lusíadas, an epic poem much devoted to Portuguese history, which made him one of the most respected authors among Portuguese community in the entire world.

Catholic Nativity of the Theotokos is a celebration marked in all regions of Portugal. It is associated with Figueira da Foz, where massive festivities are arranged.

All Saints Day is a special day for the whole Portuguese population. On November 1st, 1755 Portugal experienced major natural catastrophe, known as Lisbon earthquake. On 9:20 AM the city was destroyed completely, then washed out with a huge tsunami and eventually burnt down by wildfire. According to some historic records, about 80 thousand people were dead. Alfama buildings, erected during the Arabic period, are the sole survived area in the city. On this day, Portuguese residents commemorate the victims of that tragic day, and bring flowers to the graves of relatives.

Natal, or Catholic Christmas, is the biggest religious holiday in the country. Besides common festive decorations, the Portuguese buy Planta de Natal – the traditional wreath with red leaves. December 25th is the date of Christmas dinner, comprised of traditional dishes mainly. This is a family holiday.

The last day of the year (December 31st) or Saint Sylvester Day is much commemorated on Madeira Island, where 250 thousand torches lighten the city of Funchal. The Restaurants and bars are full of people, watching this spectacular performance.

In addition, Lisbon authorities organize open air parties on the New Year Eve.

Portugal Palaces

The significance of Portuguese history is reflected by both the national traditions and the architect heritage. The variety of old-fashioned housings, monasteries and castles promise a good sightseeing tour for every tourist visiting the country.

Portuguese palaces take a special place due to a magnificence of their architecture and a tremendous history of the country, which experienced lots of crucial events and transformations.

Queluz National Palace - Queluz National Palace is a great monument of the 18th century, located in Lisbon neighborhood. The Rococo-style palace served as a residence of Portuguese monarchs. Initially, it was built as a country house of Peter II of Portugal, but later, in 1767, it was reconstructed as a palace for Peter II of Portugal. Queluz Palace is also much associated with Maria I of Portugal, whose statue decorates the front yard of the residence. The national palace, performed in pink color, preserved its beauty till now, as well as a state importance – most of the official meetings with foreign statesmen are arranged here.

Castle of the Moors - The Castle of the Moors in Sintra makes a gorgeous and a breathtaking view, being located on the mountain of 412 meter high. It is made of red sandstone on the edge of 8th - 9th century. As one could guess, it can boast of pretty abundant history since its conquest by Scandinavian Crusaders in 1147. The Castle of the Moors appears to be a fortress by nature, which is reflected by the remains of thick walls, four towers, and the Roman church. However, the importance of this castle is still recognized by the contemporary authorities. Travelers might explore numerous tunnels and an oubliette underground. Moreover, soon the Castle of the Moors will be accompanied by a large and a colorful park within the inner walls.

Pena National Palace - Sintra hills are also “the host” of Pena National Palace, a great image of Portuguese Roman architecture. It was constructed in 1840 as a royal summer residence of Fernando II of Portugal and his wife Maria II of Portugal. Indeed, this palace perfectly fits the surrounding mountainous landscapes. It was built on the basis of Jerome monastery executed in the Portuguese Manuelino-style (14-16th century). As a result, nowadays it is a set of Roman, Gothic and Manuelino (national version of Renaissance) architect features. The presence of the royal traditions can be perceived even during the modern excursions around. For instance, the interior and decorations remain the same since the 1910, when the last queen Amélie of Orléans was forced to withdraw.

Mafra National Palace - Mafra National Palace is the biggest palace in the whole country. It was built in 1711 as a summer residence of John V of Portugal and his family. This palace has absorbed the architect experience of other European countries. First of all, it was made after Spanish El Escorial, keeping the adherence to records; in particular, it runs 880 halls, 110 bells brought from Antwerp and 13 chapels designed in Italy for 300 monks. Tourists are usually fascinated by marvelous and rich library with nearly 40 thousand books and the Museum of Religious Art in the palace monastery.

Palace Hotel of Bussaco - Palace Hotel of Bussaco is posed as one of the national symbols. It is a small residence, much adored by Portuguese monarchs. Even the last one, Amélie of Orléans, was allowed to pay a visit here after her husband and son were killed by terrorists. In 1910 Bussaco Palace turned into a hotel. It is located in the middle of a splendid forest area and, therefore, takes the leading rank among small castles of Europe. In addition, it was designed considering the architect style of Bavaria and Venice. Every room, which, by the way, are offered to date, are performed in a majestic interior style and designed with all the achievements of art.