About portugal

Portugal, officially known as the Portuguese Republic, is a country located in southwestern Europe on the Iberian Peninsula. Here are some key facts about Portugal:

Geography
- Location: Portugal is bordered by Spain to the north and east, and the Atlantic Ocean to the west and south¹.
- Size: It covers an area of approximately 92,090 square kilometers (35,556 square miles)².
- Regions: The country includes the mainland and the autonomous regions of the Azores and Madeira, which are archipelagos in the Atlantic Ocean².

Population
- Population: Portugal has a population of about 10.6 million people².
- Major Cities: The capital and largest city is Lisbon. Other major cities include Porto, Braga, and Coimbra².

Language and Culture
- Language: Portuguese is the official language².
- Culture: Portugal has a rich cultural heritage influenced by its history as a maritime nation. It is known for its traditional music, Fado, and its cuisine, which includes dishes like bacalhau (salted cod) and pastéis de nata (custard tarts)².

History
- Early History: The region has been inhabited since prehistoric times, with influences from Celtic, Roman, and Moorish cultures².
- Formation: Portugal became an independent kingdom in 1139 and established its current borders in 1297².
- Exploration: During the Age of Discovery in the 15th and 16th centuries, Portugal was a leading maritime power, establishing a vast colonial empire².

Economy
- Economy: Portugal has a mixed economy with key sectors including tourism, agriculture, and manufacturing. It is also known for its production of cork².
- Currency: The currency is the Euro (€)².

Attractions
- Lisbon: Known for its historic neighborhoods, vibrant nightlife, and landmarks like the Belém Tower and Jerónimos Monastery².
- Porto: Famous for its port wine and the picturesque Ribeira district².
- Algarve: A popular tourist destination known for its stunning beaches and golf resorts².

Portugal is a country with a rich history, diverse landscapes, and a vibrant culture. Whether you're interested in exploring its historic cities, enjoying its beautiful coastline, or tasting its delicious cuisine, Portugal has something to offer everyone.
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