1143, Portugal acquired its present shape during the following century,
making it one of Europe's most ancient nations.
- occupying the southwest of the Iberian Peninsula along the Atlantic
Ocean - determined its destiny as one of the world's great seafaring
nations, coming to prominence during the l6th-century’s Age of
Discoveries. It was the first nation to discover the sea routes to India,
to Brazil, and to China.
At the same
time the country established ties with both the east and west coasts of
Africa. Portugal has therefore left behind evidence of its language and
its culture in many places.
spontaneous and generous, the Portuguese also opened themselves up to
new cultures, and so they have made an important contribution to the
forging of a new Europe.Through its medieval castles, churches and
cathedrals, its fortresses and its palaces, Portugal gradually reveals
its long and rich history.