Africa 24 Media Photography

Portugal is the westernmost country of mainland Europe and is bordered by the Atlantic Ocean to the west and south and by Spain to the north and east.A leading research advisory firm known as the Economist Intelligent Unit has ranked Portugal 19th as having the highest quality of life and the 14th most peaceful nation globally. It is no wonder people flock to the country from all over the world adding to it the title of the multicultural hub of Europe.

The country boasts of a rich history and this is evident as one walks through towns and streets of this realm. Their architecture articulates the influence of a culture forged from a period that has been long forgotten but still held dear. Roman influenced buildings are a common site and dates back historically to the second century during the roman invasion. Soon after the Romans left, came in the moors and started the Muslim Domination of Portugal. They built mosques in a bid to convert the Portuguese into Islam but Christianity had been well established with the people and this saw many of these mosques remodeled into churches. It is now almost impossible to detect any Islamic influences in the buildings of modern day Portugal. Statistics collected from the 2001 census places the population at approximately ten million. Of these ten million 90% identify themselves as Roman catholic, protestants and other religions fall in line behind this majority but are still allowed the freedom of worship. The people in this Mediterranean country have often been described as friendly, particularly in the urban areas. Walking through town squares you will discover that the Portuguese people value each other highly as well as their culture and history. Their festivals tend to be crowd pullers and people will throng the streets in celebration of a historical event or a saint. Some of these festivals particularly in the Minho province can last for days. Public displays of affection are also a common site to see, this is however seen through out Europe. Couples here have the backdrop of beautiful buildings and peaceful environment thus allowing them to indulge each other to their hearts desire. Parks are also filled with people and their partners of a different species. Pets provide companionship for many individuals, it has been said that some of these pets often adapt the characteristics of their masters and thus it does happen that the two appear to be very alike in nature. This land offers a tourist all that they maybe looking to experience; beautiful sights, historical wealth and a charming people.

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