Portugal, a land of rich history, stunning landscapes, and vibrant culture, is a country that's full of fascinating secrets and surprises. From its picturesque coastline to its charming cities, there's more to Portugal than meets the eye. Here are _10 things you might not know about Portugal_:
1. _Portugal has a unique and rich cultural heritage, with many UNESCO World Heritage Sites, including the Jerónimos Monastery and the Tower of Belém_: These stunning monuments, which reflect Portugal's rich history and cultural achievements, are a major part of the country's identity and appeal.
2. _The Portuguese language is spoken by over 221 million people worldwide, making it one of the most widely spoken languages in the world_: This beautiful language, which is spoken in Portugal, Brazil, and several countries in Africa and Asia, is an important part of Portuguese identity and culture.
3. _Portugal is home to the oldest bookstore in the world, the Livraria Bertrand, which was founded in 1732_: This historic bookstore, which is located in Lisbon, is a must-visit destination for book lovers and history buffs.
4. _The city of Porto is famous for its Port wine, a sweet, fortified wine that's produced exclusively in the Douro Valley_: This delicious wine, which is known for its rich, fruity flavor, is a major part of Portugal's wine industry and a popular souvenir among tourists.
5. _Portugal has a stunning coastline, with many picturesque beaches and cliffs, including the famous Roca Cape, the westernmost point of Europe_: This beautiful coastline, which stretches for over 800 kilometers, is a major part of Portugal's natural beauty and appeal.
6. _The Portuguese explorer Vasco da Gama, who discovered the sea route to India in 1498, is one of the most famous explorers in history_: This brave and skilled navigator, who played a major role in the Age of Exploration, is a national hero in Portugal and a celebrated figure around the world.
7. _Portugal is home to the oldest university in Portugal, the University of Coimbra, which was founded in 1290_: This historic university, which is one of the oldest in Europe, is a major center of learning and research in Portugal.
8. _The city of Lisbon is famous for its historic trams, which have been in operation since 1873_: These charming trams, which wind their way through Lisbon's narrow streets and picturesque neighborhoods, are a popular tourist attraction and a symbol of the city's rich history and culture.
9. _Portugal is a leader in renewable energy, with over 60% of its electricity coming from renewable sources, including wind, solar, and hydro power_: This commitment to sustainability and renewable energy is a major part of Portugal's efforts to reduce its carbon footprint and protect the environment.
10. _The Portuguese tradition of Fado music, which is characterized by soulful melodies and poignant lyrics, is a UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity_: This beautiful and expressive music, which is a major part of Portuguese culture and identity, is a must-experience for anyone visiting Portugal.
10 Surprising Facts About Portugal By Shomek