Portugal, after the Christian conquest and having marked the borders of its nation in mid-13th c, which have not been altered since then, set its eyes towards the sea. These expeditions granted Portugal new and undiscovered oceans and lands such as the Azores and Madeira and precious landscapes and beaches as in Faro in the south region called Algarve. All this and more thanks to an extensive coastline and being consistent has made Portugal history impressive. However, we must also remember the stubborn character of the Infant Dom Henrique, great leader of the Order of Christ, a Portuguese version of the Knight Templar and the real naval knowledge that promoted this era of Portugal and its history.
Starting with the style called Manuelino, a late version of  Portuguese Gothic, the outstanding architectural and sculptural motifs are always related to the sea, up until the modern times, always depicting marine scenes. As if treating this theme as an impossible dream, it had been turned into a living exhibition as we could see in the World Fair in Portugal in 1998, with its principal theme as The Oceans.
This blend of cultures and history of Portugal has brought us some richnesses as the well known tiles from the Muslim times and continues to be used as in no other European country. In the streets, on the faces of buildings, as an interior decoration in any room. The word ´azulejos´ ( tile) comes from the Arab word ´azuleique´ meaning a small smooth stone. The development and production of the tiles in Portugal began at the end of the 15th c. But it was not until the 18th century, after the 1755 lisbon earthquake. when these beautiful tiles invaded churches, cathedrals, convents, palaces, gardens, fountains and stairways. The National Museum of Tiles is located in the Convent of the Church Mother of God in Lisbon, and has the whole collection telling the history of Portugal tile. In other cities such as Sintra, Albufeira and all over Portugal and its territories, in Madeira, in the gardens of the Palace in Funchal, you will be able to see panels from every era.
Portuguese cities and their charm
Man does not live on culture alone! There is very well known secret of our lady of Fatima and and many festivals from north to south, but especially in the Azores and Madeira owing to its year round warm weather. Get a good map of Portugal and live the colour of the party and the fireworks at the popular New Year´s celebration in Funchal, Madeira. Among the festive holiday in Portugal, on June 12th, the eve of Saint Anthony, join in on the local street parties in the historic areas. Easter week is especially well preformed in Braga, in the Porto region. The Portuguese folklore, overflowing in originality in both sound and traditional costumes makes even the most timid feel an incredible temptation to become part of Portugal life.
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