The Influence of Portugal on the World: From History to Heritage!

Portugal is the westernmost country which is an incredible tourist heaven. With its pristine beaches, gothic chapels, forts, and peaceful ambiance. You will find yourself molding into a European climate with a Mediterranean touch while enjoying the attractions. So, if you are a true traveler, then you might be willing to dig for more knowledge about Portuguese influence in the world, its history, and its fascinating heritage

This guide will take a deeper look at this Schengen country and how it plays a crucial role in the tourism map. Keep reading!!! 

                                              

Everything about Portuguese Influence: Colonialism, History, Trade, & Heritage

Portugal is the heart of the world empire, as this small vibrant country has the oldest national boundaries in Europe. This country has a perfect blend of history, heritage, and culture. 

Portuguese Colonial Legacy

The Portuguese colonial legacy is filled with cultures, economies, and glimpses of several countries that came under the empire of Portuguese. From the 15th to 20th century, Portuguese discoveries, and colonization spread and impacted regions in Asia, Africa, and more. Such a strong Portuguese influence has left its presence in history and this is still seen today in former colonies. 

                                                                  

One of the biggest remarks of Portuguese colonialism is the Portuguese language, which is adopted as the official language by several nations, including Brazil, and Guinea-Bissau. This language is not just a way to converse with people but it shows the shared culture among countries. The interesting fact is that Brazil is the largest Portuguese-speaking country in the world. This country has its unique culture but also its traditions show the Portuguese influence. 

Religion is another legacy carried through the Portuguese. During its rule, Portuguese missionaries played a crucial role in spreading Christianity across their colonies. This influence further shaped the beliefs and societal norms of those colonies. 

The architecture is also another influence which is seen in many former colonies. Cities in Asia, Brazil, Angola, and more boast European architectural styles, along with colonial-era buildings of the Portuguese ruling period. This is also witnessed in art, music, and traditions, which gave rise to new cultural forms like Fado music.                                                                    

Despite the decline of Portuguese colonial rule in the mid-20th century, its legacies continued to influence the world. Undoubtedly, the Portuguese colonial legacy is filled with cultural exchanges and histories, which are fully visible in different aspects of renowned countries across the globe.  

Portuguese influence on world history

The History of Portugal is filled with significant events which led to the biggest influence of this country in the world. Portugal is a vibrant small country on the Iberian Peninsula. However, in the 15th century, under the leadership of Infante Dom Henrique de Avis, this country began the era of exploration and this is how Portuguese influence started across countries. 

The Portuguese were the experts in long-distance navigation and created ships and unique navigation techniques. This helped them in exploring the trade routes towards different continents including Africa, South America, and Asia. This exploration began with the conquest of Ceuta in 1415. Then, the process of colonization started. In 1500, the Portuguese navigator Pedro Alvares Cabral arrived in Brazil and started this colonization system. 

“Republica Portuguesa” is a democratic republic country which is bordered by Spain and the Atlantic Ocean. Portugal has seen the constant marks of different civilizations - Iberian, Greek, Roman, Germanic, and Moorish cultures. Portugal has always gained traditions from these cultures and from the colonies it conquered during its rule. During the 15th and 16th centuries, Portugal became a major power, stretching its empire from Brazil to the Indies. 

When it comes to the role of the Portuguese in shaping world history, then it has played a huge role during its age of exploration. Portugal was the leading power in earlier times and its voyages led to international trade, cultural influences, and globalization. 

One of the biggest contributions this country made to world history was the exploration, which not only found new trade routes but also taught navigational techniques to the world. This is how, in 1498, Vasco da Gama became the first European to explore the sea routes and trade between Asia and Europe. This created a way for Portugal to become a strong maritime power. 

The influence of Portugal is generally seen in its colonies including Brazil, when it became one of the wealthiest colonies, contributing to the growth of the Portuguese empire. 

Not just the sea routes, Portugal with its involvement in the slave trade also impacted world history. This was the trade when it built a profitable slave trade network and affected its colonies on a big scale. Portugal’s rule also showed its darker side, which was full of exploitation. The effects of Portuguese rule in Asia, South America, and Africa are still seen today.

Undoubtedly, the Portuguese had a great influence on world history and trade. From exploration to cultural exchanges with colonies, Portugal’s actions defined history differently. 

Portuguese influence on trade networks

During exploration, Portugal played a crucial role in the development of trade networks. As one of the biggest maritime powers, Portuguese influence shaped commerce and connected different regions of Asia, Africa, and America. The Portuguese established a great trade network which led to the exchange of cultures, and goods.  

 

Portugal was the biggest power that created new sea routes. With explorers and navigators, Portugal successfully sailed and linked Europe to other continents, which were key to different trades including the biggest spice trade. These sea routes became the way to global trade and led to the flow of goods like metals, spices, etc. 

The establishment of sugar plantations was also fueled by the Portuguese. Such establishments made the Portuguese merchants one of the richest in the world. 

Such an extensive trade network of Portugal also paved the way for the exchange of technology and culture. Portuguese traders brought with them some new philosophies of astronomy, medicine, and more. By immersing their theories in the culture of their colonies, they enriched their own scientific development. 

Portugal and world heritage

Portugal has a rich history that is far from its geographical borders. For centuries, it has made a great contribution to culture, traditions, and even world heritage. This way it unfolded unique art, traditions, architecture, and culture. Today, Portugal boasts a lot of UNESCO World Heritage sites, which showcase its influential rich culture. 

Surprisingly, Portugal has 17 UNESCO World Heritage sites which show this country’s diverse culture and history, from Roman to Moorish. The historic centre of Oporto, The tower of Belem and Jeronimos monastery, and The prehistoric rock art sites are the notable ones among those heritage sites. 

Portugal’s heritage had a great influence on architectural developments all around the world. The most famous was the Manueline style which mixes Moorh, Gothic as well as Renaissance styles. Such an influence is always a great example of world architecture. The famous Jeronimos monastery also showcases intricate stonework and decorations. Cities including Lisbon and Sintra also boast unique historic buildings and palaces. 

Portugal’s age of exploration has impacted world history on a huge scale as the navigators explored unknown routes. Many of the lands were in Africa, South America, and Asia, which were then influenced by Portuguese art, culture, and language. This is witnessed in Brazil which still retains the cultural heritage of Portuguese. 

From the Azores to the Madeira islands, Portugal is a custodian of biodiversity and heritage. Being a traveler, you will still witness Portuguese influence in many of the places around the world.

WORLD HERITAGE SITES IN PORTUGAL: 

The Requirement of Portugal Schengen Visa

The Schengen Agreement is a treaty that led to the creation of the Schengen area. This agreement was signed on 14 June 1985, near the town named Schengen. This agreement led to several border check controls and harmonization of visa policies. In 1990, this was completely supplemented by the Schengen Convention which abolished the internal border system and brought a common visa policy. However, there are 29 European countries under the Schengen area. 

As per Brexit, now it is mandatory for UK residents to get a visa to enter Portugal, which comes under the Schengen area. Therefore, travelers need to get a Portugal visa appointment from the UK, in order to explore the charm of this country, conduct business activities, meet their family, study, and more. 

A Portugal visa is the key to an unforgettable experience!!

SUMMARY 

In summary, the history, exploration, and discoveries are the biggest legacies that led to the Portuguese influence in the world on a big scale. 

Such an influence is widely seen in their colonies in every aspect from culture to architecture. Interestingly the history of this country is influencing the world till today. So if you are convinced by the history of this vibrant country and want to explore its attractions by yourself, then don’t forget to apply for a Portugal visa London on time. 

                            

Frequently Asked Questions 

Is a Visa mandatory for visiting Portugal from the UK?

As per the Schengen rules, all UK travelers do not require a Portugal visa. UK citizens are exempted from the visa policy, whereas UK residents need to have a valid Portugal Schengen visa. 

How many cultural heritage sites are there in Portugal?

Portugal is a proud country with 17 UNESCO World Heritage Sites. The most famous ones include Jeronimos Monastery, Convent of Christ, Belem Tower, Batalha Monastery, etc. 

What is Portugal known for?

Portugal is one of the oldest countries in Europe and indeed a spotlight for travelers. Portugal is well known for its rich culture, gastronomy, pleasant weather, and beautiful attractions.