Portugal

◊ Getting to Portugal

◊ Moving to Portugal

◊ Living in Portugal

◊Sustainable Energy or Renewable Energy in Portugal

Regions of Portugal

◊ Central Portugal

Portugal is an astonishingly beautiful country and it has a diverse mix of scenery. From the contorted southern coastline of beaches, cliffs and coves to the rolling hills and forests of the Ribatejo region; the plains of the Alentejo to the rugged mountains of the Beiras.

Whether you are visiting Portugal for a holiday, weekend break or looking to purchase a property as a retreat or to relocate, the country has a lot to offer. With approximately 92,000 kilometres in area, Portugal is the westernmost country in Europe and it's entire coastline borders onto the Atlantic Ocean. Portugal has only one land frontier, that being with Spain.

Historically mainland Portugal was split into 10 different provinces - Tras-o-Montes, Douro, Minho, Beira Alto, Beira Litoral, Beira Baixa, Estramadura, Ribatejo, Alentejo and the Algarve. However in 1976 these regions changed and Portugal is now divided into districts (concelhos), of which there are 18.

Most of these districts are named by using the largest city or town within them. These districts are Aveiro, Braga, Beja, Braganca, Castelo Branco, Coimbra, Evora, Faro, Guarda, Leiria, Lisbon, Portelegre, Porto, Santarem, Setubal, Viana do Castelo and Viseu. The islands of Madeira and the Azores have been autonomous regions of Portugal since 1978.

The fortunes of Portugal have changed drastically over the centuries. During the Middle Ages it was a major sea-faring nation and the discoveries made helped the country’s economic growth and influenced its culture. It was one of the first nations to begin colonization, which brought great prosperity.

By the late 17^th century however Portugal began a slow decline, which was hastened by the independence in 1822 of the country’s largest colonial possession, Brazil. Economic problems continued into the 20^th century when the monarchy was disposed.

It is only in the last three decades, since the Carnation Revolution in 1974, which ended 48 years of dictatorship rule; Portugal has begun to redress the balance. Entry into the European Union, as a founder member has been a major contributor providing investment in infrastructures and a more stable economic growth.