Photographers for your intimate destination wedding or elopement
TOP VENUES
FOR YOUR DREAM WEDDING IN COIMBRA
For the Nostalgic, Storyteller, FADO and Cinema Lovers
ICONIC AND CHARMING VENUES
IN THE HEART OF PORTUGUESE COUNTRYSIDE
Your Ultimate Guide to Legally Marrying in COIMBRA: ROMANCE AND LOVE STORIES WITH A TOUCH OF FADO
BY ERIC RENE PENOY
Why Coimbra is the MOST CHARMING Destination for Your Dream Wedding or Elopement!
we are passionate about capturing the unique love stories of couples through breathtaking, cinematic photography. Based in the heart of Porto, Portugal, we specialize in both weddings and elopements, offering a tailored experience that blends artistry with authenticity. Whether you're exchanging vows against the stunning backdrop of the Douro River, in a charming city alley, or along the dramatic cliffs of the coastline, we’re here to document every beautiful moment with timeless imagery. Our approach is not just about photos—it’s about telling your story, filled with emotion, raw connection, and unforgettable memories. Let us help you create a visual legacy that celebrates your love in the most magical way possible.
Let‘s have a Simple but Deep Connection
Coimbra Wedding and Elopement Photography Service. FOR ADVENTUROUS COUPLES IN SEARCH OF THE MOST WONDERFUL CEREMONY.
TOP VENUES FOR YOUR DREAM DESTINATION WEDDINGS IN COIMBRA
Coimbra Wedding and Elopement Photographer: Capturing Timeless Love Stories
Coimbra, the historic heart of Portugal, is a dream destination for couples seeking an unforgettable wedding or elopement experience. With its stunning architecture, charming streets, and breathtaking landscapes, this city offers the perfect mix of romance, culture, and adventure. Whether you envision exchanging vows in a centuries-old monastery, a lush riverside garden, or a grand palace, Coimbra provides an extraordinary setting for your love story.
Easily accessible from major cities like Porto and Lisbon, Coimbra is an ideal wedding destination for both local and international couples. With its mild weather, beautiful golden sunlight, and a rich cultural heritage, the city provides a perfect backdrop for an intimate wedding or an adventurous elopement. From historic landmarks to serene natural settings, Coimbra has everything needed to make your wedding magical.
In this article, we explore the best wedding and elopement locations in Coimbra, highlighting their unique charm and suitability for different styles of ceremonies. Whether you dream of a grand celebration or a quiet, intimate moment, these venues offer the perfect ambiance for your special day.
Let’s dive into the most stunning locations to say "I do" in Coimbra!
WHY Coimbra?
Why Portugal is Perfect for Weddings and Elopements
Romantic and Scenic Landscapes –
Coimbra’s breathtaking landscapes, from clifftop viewpoints to lush gardens, create the perfect wedding backdrop.
Rich Cultural Heritage –
As one of Portugal’s most historic cities, Coimbra provides endless charming settings infused with history and elegance.
Easy Accessibility –
Well connected to major cities, Coimbra offers convenience for both local and international guests.
Perfect Weather –
Coimbra enjoys a mild Mediterranean climate, making it an excellent destination for weddings year-round.
VERY EASY ACCESS WORLDWIDE
Iconic Locations for YOUR PortUGUESE Wedding Photography
Diverse Venue Options –
From historic monasteries to lush gardens, Coimbra offers a range of stunning venues to match any wedding style.
Intimate and Private Settings –
With secluded gardens, hidden chapels, and breathtaking nature, Coimbra is perfect for private and intimate celebrations.
Exquisite Cuisine –
Indulge in delicious Portuguese cuisine, with local specialties and world-renowned wines adding a gastronomic delight to your wedding.
Adventure and Romance Combined –
Whether you love history, nature, or adventure, Coimbra offers an unforgettable wedding experience tailored to your love story.
STILL NOT
CONVINCED?
What are the most beautiful/magical locations to get married in Coimbra?
GET access to wedding venues in Portugal to get inspired.
ELEVATE YOUR WEDDING EXPERIENCE IN PORTUGAL
Dream Weddings Start in Coimbra
Coimbra’s diverse wedding locations offer something for every couple, whether you’re seeking a grand, historic venue or a secluded, natural escape. Each setting provides a distinct ambiance, from the regal halls of the University of Coimbra to the tranquil forests of Lousã. Beyond the venues, Coimbra offers an unmatched romantic atmosphere, rich history, and easy accessibility, making it the perfect wedding destination. Now, let’s explore what makes Coimbra the ideal location for intimate weddings and elopements.
COIMBRA
University of Coimbra – A Historic and Majestic Setting
The University of Coimbra, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, provides an extraordinary backdrop for a wedding. With its stunning Joanina Library, grand courtyards, and breathtaking city views, this location blends academic prestige with historical charm. The ornate Baroque and Manueline architecture offers an elegant and sophisticated setting for your vows.
Description: Perfect for history-loving couples, this venue provides a regal and timeless atmosphere for an elegant wedding or elopement.
Quinta das Lágrimas – A Romantic Palace with a Legendary Love Story
This 18th-century palace and gardens are steeped in the romantic legend of Pedro and Inês, making it one of Coimbra’s most enchanting wedding locations. The lush gardens, historic interiors, and serene ambiance create a fairytale-like setting for a wedding.
Description: Quinta das Lágrimas offers a dreamy and poetic atmosphere, perfect for couples who seek a wedding infused with history and romance.
3Monastery of Santa Clara-a-Velha – A Timeless Architectural Gem
This medieval monastery, set along the Mondego River, provides an awe-inspiring atmosphere for a unique wedding. The blend of gothic ruins and serene waters creates a mystical and captivating backdrop for your ceremony.
Description: A perfect venue for those who love ancient history, serene landscapes, and a touch of mystery for their wedding day.
Botanical Garden of Coimbra – A Natural Paradise for an Outdoor Wedding
For couples who adore nature, the Botanical Garden of Coimbra offers a stunning setting filled with exotic plants, centuries-old trees, and peaceful pathways. The lush greenery and fresh floral scents create an idyllic outdoor wedding experience.
Description: Ideal for nature lovers, this venue brings the beauty of the outdoors into an enchanting wedding settingConímbriga Roman Ruins – A Unique and Historic Backdrop
Coimbra, the historic heart of Portugal
This jewel in the center of Portugal is known to have been the capital of the country with immense historical importance and for hosting one of the oldest Universities. Here are my top best wedding venues in Coimbra.
Palácio da Lousã
A boutique hotel with the capacity to offer small and big weddings, from 30 to 300 guests. With indoor and outdoor possibilities, the venue has several rooms and gardens, fitting accordingly to your type of celebration.
Quinta das Lágrimas Palace
Once a private palace, and where Emperor D.Pedro and Inês de Castro had their love story, this villa is the perfect place for a romantic wedding with luxury and history. With beautiful gardens and a chapel, this venue has a lot to offer.
Convento de Sandelgas
This monastery is the perfect venue for a rustic wedding with a historical feel.
With stonewalls surrounding the halls, a beautiful chapel, and gardens, this place gathers a peaceful and magical atmosphere and nature.
IMagine saying your vows amidst the remnants of an ancient Roman city. Conímbriga, one of Portugal’s best-preserved Roman sites, offers a one-of-a-kind wedding venue for couples seeking a historical and adventurous setting.
Description: A fascinating choice for history and adventure-loving couples looking for an out-of-the-ordinary wedding venue.
Penedo da Saudade – A Breathtaking Clifftop Viewpoint
Overlooking the city of Coimbra, this poetic and scenic spot offers a panoramic view that is perfect for intimate wedding ceremonies or romantic elopements. It’s a peaceful escape filled with poetic inscriptions and lush gardens.
Description: A magical clifftop location for an intimate wedding with stunning sunset views and deep sentimental value.
Lousã Mountains – A Fairytale Wedding in Nature
For adventurous couples, the Lousã Mountains provide an extraordinary location with lush forests, hidden chapels, and cascading waterfalls. Whether in a rustic stone village or a secret forest glade, this setting is perfect for nature lovers.
Description: Ideal for adventurous couples who dream of a wedding surrounded by Portugal’s most stunning natural landscapes.
Palácio da Lousã – An Elegant and Grand Venue
This 18th-century palace offers a luxurious setting for a fairytale wedding. With its grand halls, historical charm, and stunning architecture, it’s perfect for couples looking for an elegant yet intimate venue.
Description: A sophisticated and luxurious venue for couples wanting a wedding that exudes elegance and charm.
HOW TO GET MARRIED IN Coimbra
LEGALLY MARRIED IN Coimbra
To legally marry in Portugal as a U.S. or British citizen, you must follow these key steps:
Choose Your Ceremony Type – Portugal allows both civil and religious weddings. Civil weddings are legally binding, while religious ceremonies require civil registration.
Gather Required Documents – You will need:
Valid passports
Birth certificates (certified and translated into Portuguese)
A Certificate of No Impediment (CNI) confirming you are free to marry, obtained from your local registry office in the U.K. or U.S. embassy
If divorced, a final divorce decree; if widowed, a death certificate of the previous spouse
Submit Documents – All documents must be apostilled and translated by a certified translator before submission to a Portuguese Civil Registry Office at least 30 days before the wedding.
Plan the Ceremony – Civil weddings take place at the registry office or an approved venue. Religious ceremonies must be pre-approved.
Obtain a Marriage Certificate – After the ceremony, you’ll receive an official marriage certificate, which can be legalized for international use.
It is advisable to consult a local wedding planner or embassy to ensure compliance with updated regulations.
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Portugal is one of the countries where you do not need to be an actual resident to be married by the Portuguese national authorities. In the next article, we will present to you how magical can be your perfect wedding destination, also depending on the area you have chosen, you will see a lot of different possibilities. We will also cover how to legally prepare your document if you wish to be married in Portugal even if you are from abroad. If you plan your Wedding or Elopement in Portugal you should know the market is about 20 to 30% lowest than most countries in Europe and would cost between €7500 up to €30.000 in 2023/2024. Depending obviously on the number of guests, the location. You can rather rent a Palacio (castle), a fully inclusive hotel, or a private house. The providers are amazing and the products and music scene are even better.
From the Knot Articles in 2019: “Weddings in Portugal also come at a hefty price tag of $16,700 with an average of 126 guests.” but the pricing now is rising as Portugal is becoming very popular.
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Portugal is one of the best, rather romantic, or adventurous elopement destinations in modern times in Europe. Portugal offers a variety of landscapes, temperatures, and cultures and provides the best mix between beautiful weather, amazing food, wine, and traditions. We will find a lot of different opportunities for your Wedding or Elopement. If you like an outdoor location by the mountain, by the beach, in a colorful city, or beautiful architectural location full of history. There are a lot of palaces, and castles, you can easily get married to a Portuguese administration and plan a nice dinner at a beautiful typical or modern restaurant enjoying typical Fado while drinking Porto wine and eating sea food.
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The cost of hiring a wedding photographer in Portugal varies based on experience, package inclusions, and coverage duration. Generally, prices range from €1,200 for emerging photographers to €3,000 or more for full-day coverage by seasoned professionals. This typically includes ceremony and reception coverage, formal portraits, and a selection of edited digital images.
As of December 1, 2024, there are 421 wedding photographers in Portugal, reflecting a 4.2% increase from the previous year. Notably, 95.49% of these are single-owner operations, while the remaining 4.51% are part of larger brands. The majority are concentrated in Lisbon District (117), Porto District (98), and Braga District (38).
It's important to note that a significant portion of wedding photographers in Portugal are amateurs who supplement their income from other professions. Estimates suggest that over 80% fall into this category.
When selecting a wedding photographer, consider factors such as experience, style, package details, and whether they operate full-time or part-time. This ensures you choose a professional who aligns with your vision and expectations for your special day.
When considering wedding photography in Portugal's autonomous regions of Madeira and the Azores, it's essential to understand the local market dynamics.
Madeira:
Number of Photographers: In Funchal, Madeira's capital, there are approximately 31 professional wedding photographers available.
Pricing: The cost for wedding photography services in Madeira typically starts from €1,000.
Azores:
Number of Photographers: The Azores have a smaller pool of wedding photographers compared to mainland Portugal and Madeira. While exact numbers are not specified, several professionals specialize in capturing weddings across the archipelago.
Pricing: For a wedding in the Azores, it's advisable to budget at least €10,000–€15,000 to cover essential expenses, including venue, catering, and photography. This estimate is general, and actual photography costs may vary based on specific requirements.
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ALL THAT YOU NEED TO KNOW ABOUT HOW TO GET CIVIL MARRIED IN PORTUGAL. HOW DO GET MARRIED IN BEAUTIFUL PORTUGAL
Mentioning the Government of Portugal: “The marriage process is initiated when the engaged couple goes to a civil registry office and declares their will to get married. They may also do it online.
In the marriage process, the engaged couple may also be represented by their representatives with special powers. The process is concluded with the registry office’s order which authorizes or refutes the marriage.”
The marriage process may be initiated by:
the individuals who intend to get married or by their representatives with special powers
by the priest or religious minister of a church or religious community established in Portugal, through a request.
Who can get married?
Any individual over 16 years old.
However, if any of the engaged parties are not yet 18 years old, the parent’s or guardian’s authorization is necessary. This authorization may be waivered by the civil registry office, through a specific process.
To get married, no marriage impediments may be observed
During the marriage process, the registry office verifies if there are no impediments to the marriage of those two individuals. If there are no impediments, the registry office authorizes the marriage.
WHERE CAN YOU INITIATE THE MARRIAGE PROCESS?
Online, at the Civil Online website.
In-person, at any civil registry office.
At certain offices, you may schedule the service.
WHAT ARE THE DOCUMENTS AND REQUIREMENTS TO INITIATE THE MARRIAGE PROCESS?
You must submit the following documents of the engaged couple:
Citizen Card or identity document.
A prenuptial agreement certificate, if it has been prepared at a notary office.
WHAT IS THE PRICE TO INITIATE THE MARRIAGE PROCESS?
The cost of the marriage process and registry is 120€This amount includes the process before the marriage and the registry carried out after the marriage.
Non-urgent marriage on a Saturday, Sunday, or holiday, outside the registry office or at the registry office but outside of the operating hoursThe cost of the marriage process and registry will be 200€ if you opt to get married:
on a Saturday, Sunday, or holiday
on a business day, outside the registry office or at the registry office but outside the operating hours.
BEST TIMES OF YEAR TO GET MARRIED OR ELOPE IN Coimbra
The best time to get married in Coimbra, Portugal, depends on your preferred atmosphere, weather, and overall wedding experience. However, spring (March to May) and autumn (September to October) are widely considered the best seasons.
Spring offers mild temperatures between 15°C and 25°C (59°F to 77°F), blooming flowers, and vibrant greenery, making it perfect for outdoor ceremonies. It’s also before the peak tourist season, allowing for better venue availability and a more intimate ambiance.
Autumn provides equally comfortable weather, ranging from 18°C to 28°C (64°F to 82°F), along with breathtaking fall colors. This season is ideal for vineyard weddings and historic settings, offering a romantic and cozy atmosphere. Additionally, it avoids the intense summer heat while maintaining long daylight hours.
Summer (June to August) is perfect for those who love sunshine, but temperatures can rise to 35°C (95°F), making midday ceremonies challenging. Late afternoon or evening weddings are recommended for comfort.
Winter (December to February) offers a unique, intimate setting with lower venue costs and fewer tourists, but temperatures range from 8°C to 16°C (46°F to 61°F), making indoor venues preferable.
For the perfect balance of weather, scenery, and availability, April to June and September to October are the best months to get married in Coimbra.
CONCLUSION
YOUR ADVENTURE STARTS HERE
Coimbra Wedding Photographer.
Portugal's Best Kept Secrets: The Most Beautiful and Unique Wedding Locations You Need to Know"
Why choose Portugal as your wedding destination?
ELOPEMENTS AND INTIMATE WEDDINGS IN Coimbra.
The most beautiful, romantic, wild, or trendy venues to get married in Portugal.
Portugal already became one of the best places to visit back in 2017, so why not choose the country to get married to and gather your family and friends in a trendy and beautiful location? Here you can find some of the best villas, castles, hotels, and churches in this little and amazing European country.ent.
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Portugal,[e] officially the Portuguese Republic,[f] is a country in the Iberian Peninsula in Southwestern Europe. Featuring the westernmost point in continental Europe, Portugal borders Spain to its north and east, with which it shares the longest uninterrupted border in the European Union; to the south and the west is the North Atlantic Ocean; and to the west and southwest lie the Macaronesian archipelagos of the Azores and Madeira, which are two autonomous regions of Portugal. Lisbon is the capital and largest city, followed by Porto, which is the only other metropolitan area.
The western part of the Iberian Peninsula has been continuously inhabited since prehistoric times, with the earliest signs of settlement dating to 5500 BC.[14] Celtic and Iberian peoples arrived in the first millennium BC. The region came under Roman control in the second century BC, followed by a succession of Germanic peoples and the Alans from the fifth to eighth centuries AD. Muslims conquered Portugal's current mainland in the eighth century, but were gradually expelled by the Christian Reconquista. Modern Portugal began taking shape during this period, initially as a county of the Christian Kingdom of León in 868, officially declared a sovereign Kingdom with the Treaty of Zamora in 1143.[15]
During the Age of Discovery, the Kingdom of Portugal settled Madeira and the Azores, and established itself as a major economic and political power, largely through its maritime empire, which extended mostly along the South Atlantic and Indian Ocean coasts.[16] Portuguese explorers and merchants were instrumental in establishing trading posts and colonies that enabled control over spices and slave trades.[17] While Portugal expanded its influence globally, its political and military power faced internal and external challenges towards the end of the 16th century. The dynastic crisis marked the beginning of the country's political decline that led to the Iberian Union (1580-1640), a period in which Portugal was united under Spanish rule.[18] While maintaining a degree of self-governance, the union strained Portugal’s autonomy and drew it into conflicts with European powers which targeted Portuguese territories and trade routes.[19] Portugal's prior opulence was further diminished by a series of events, such as the Portuguese Restoration War and the 1755 Lisbon earthquake, which destroyed the city and damaged the empire's economy.[20]
The Napoleonic Wars motivated the Portuguese royal family to relocate to Brazil in 1807. This event reshaped the relationship between Portugal and Brazil, culminating in Brazilian independence in 1822,[21] which indirectly led to a civil war between liberals and absolutists from 1828 to 1834.[22] The monarchy was overthrown in the 5 October 1910 revolution, which led to the establishment of the Portuguese First Republic. A phase of unrest ultimately led to the rise of authoritarian regimes of the Ditadura Nacional and the Estado Novo.[23] Democracy was finally restored following the Carnation Revolution of 1974, and brought an end to the Portuguese Colonial War, allowing the last of Portugal’s African territories to achieve independence.[24]
Portugal's imperial history has left a cultural legacy, with around 300 million Portuguese speakers around the world. Today, it is a developed country with an advanced economy relying chiefly upon services, industry, and tourism. Portugal, a member of the United Nations, the European Union, the Schengen Area, and the Council of Europe, was one of the founding members of NATO, the eurozone, the OECD, and the Community of Portuguese Language Countries.
Coimbra is a magical wedding destination that blends history, romance, and breathtaking scenery into an unforgettable experience. Whether you envision an elegant ceremony at the University of Coimbra, a rustic celebration in the Lousã Mountains, or an intimate exchange of vows in a charming garden, this city has something for every couple. With its easy access, stunning weather, and range of venue options, Coimbra offers the perfect setting for a wedding filled with love and adventure.
Beyond the venue, your wedding should be a story worth telling, and that’s where we come in. As professional wedding photographers, we are passionate about capturing every heartfelt moment of your special day. We specialize in 2-3 day wedding adventures, allowing us to document not just your ceremony but also the journey leading up to it. Whether it’s a pre-wedding shoot in the historic streets of Coimbra, a romantic sunset session on a clifftop, or a candid moment at your intimate reception, we create a narrative that reflects your love story in the most authentic and breathtaking way.
Let us capture your wedding adventure in Coimbra—because your love deserves to be remembered forever.
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Coimbra (/koʊˈɪmbrə/, also US: /kuˈ-, ˈkwɪmbrə/, UK: /ˈkɔɪmbrə/, Portuguese: [kuˈĩbɾɐ] ( or [ˈkwĩbɾɐ]) is a city and a municipality in Portugal. The population at the 2011 census was 143,397, in an area of 319.40 square kilometres (123.3 sq mi).The fourth-largest urban centre in Portugal (after Lisbon, Porto and Braga), it is the largest city in the district of Coimbra and the Centro Region. About 460,000 people live in the Região de Coimbra, comprising 19 municipalities and extending into an area of 4,336 square kilometres (1,674 sq mi).
Among the many archaeological structures dating back to the Roman era, when Coimbra was the settlement of Aeminium, are its well-preserved aqueduct and cryptoporticus. Similarly, buildings from the period when Coimbra was the capital of Portugal (from 1131 to 1255) still remain. During the late Middle Ages, with its decline as the political centre of the Kingdom of Portugal, Coimbra began to evolve into a major cultural centre. This was in large part helped by the establishment of the University of Coimbra in 1290, the oldest academic institution in the Portuguese-speaking world. Apart from attracting many European and international students, the university is visited by many tourists for its monuments and history. Its historical buildings were classified as a World Heritage site by UNESCO in 2013: "Coimbra offers an outstanding example of an integrated university city with a specific urban typology as well as its own ceremonial and cultural traditions that have been kept alive through the ages.”
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FULL LIST OF WEDDING VENUES IN PORTUGAL
Adega Regional de Colares - Agroturismo Atzaro - Alenquer - Algarve - Areias do Seixo - Aviero - Braga - Casa de Castelo - Casa de Laila - Casa de Reguengos - Cascais - Castelo de Portuzelo - Douro Valley - Estufa Fria - Estufa Real - Faro - Forte da Cruz - Fronteira Palace - Gradil - Guimaraes - Herdade do Amarelo - Hotel Palacio de Villapanes - Hotel Santa Maria de Bouro - Lamego - Leiria - Madeira - Monchique - Monserrate Palace - Noto - Paco de Vitorino - Palacio da Pena - Palacio de Estoi - Palacio Fronteira - Parque Pedras Salgadas - Penafiel - Penha Longa - Pin Cliffs Luxury - Porto - Portofino - Pousada de Palmela - Pousada de Amares - Queluz - Quinta Casa Grande - Quinta da Caloura - Quinta das Lagrimas - Quinta de Penalva - Quinta de sant’ana - Quinta Segade - Quinta do Hespanhol - Quinta do Lago - Rio do Prado - Senhora da Rocha - Sesimbra - Sintra - Solar de Levada - Son Berga - Sublime Comporta - The Wine House - The Yeatman - Vidago Palace - Vila Monte - Villa Bardini - Wine Cellar - 100 Maneiras -The western part of the Iberian Peninsula has been continuously inhabited since prehistoric times, with the earliest signs of settlement dating to 5500 BC.[14]Celtic and Iberian peoples arrived in the first millennium BC. The region came under Roman control in the second century BC, followed by a succession of Germanic peoples and the Alans from the fifth to eighth centuries AD. Muslims conquered Portugal's current mainland in the eighth century, but were gradually expelled by the Christian Reconquista. Modern Portugal began taking shape during this period, initially as a county of the Christian Kingdom of León in 868, officially declared a sovereign Kingdom with the Treaty of Zamora in 1143.[15]
During the Age of Discovery, the Kingdom of Portugal settled Madeira and the Azores, and established itself as a major economic and political power, largely through its maritime empire, which extended mostly along the South Atlantic and Indian Ocean coasts.[16] Portuguese explorers and merchants were instrumental in establishing trading posts and colonies that enabled control over spices and slave trades.[17] While Portugal expanded its influence globally, its political and military power faced internal and external challenges towards the end of the 16th century. The dynastic crisis marked the beginning of the country's political decline that led to the Iberian Union (1580-1640), a period in which Portugal was united under Spanish rule.[18] While maintaining a degree of self-governance, the union strained Portugal’s autonomy and drew it into conflicts with European powers which targeted Portuguese territories and trade routes.[19] Portugal's prior opulence was further diminished by a series of events, such as the Portuguese Restoration War and the 1755 Lisbon earthquake, which destroyed the city and damaged the empire's economy.[20]
The Napoleonic Wars motivated the Portuguese royal family to relocate to Brazil in 1807. This event reshaped the relationship between Portugal and Brazil, culminating in Brazilian independence in 1822,[21] which indirectly led to a civil war between liberals and absolutists from 1828 to 1834.[22] The monarchy was overthrown in the 5 October 1910 revolution, which led to the establishment of the Portuguese First Republic. A phase of unrest ultimately led to the rise of authoritarian regimes of the Ditadura Nacional and the Estado Novo.[23] Democracy was finally restored following the Carnation Revolution of 1974, and brought an end to the Portuguese Colonial War, allowing the last of Portugal’s African territories to achieve independence.[24]
Portugal's imperial history has left a cultural legacy, with around 300 million Portuguese speakers around the world. Today, it is a developed country with an advanced economy relying chiefly upon services, industry, and tourism. Portugal, a member of the United Nations, the European Union, the Schengen Area, and the Council of Europe, was one of the founding members of NATO, the eurozone, the OECD, and the Community of Portuguese Language Countries.
