Photographers for your intimate destination wedding or elopement
TOP VENUES
FOR YOUR DREAM WEDDING
IN ALENTEJO
RUSTIC AND CHARMING VENUES
IN THE HEART OF PORTUGAL
For the Nostalgic, Storyteller, FOOD and Cinema Lovers
Your Ultimate Guide to Legally Marrying in ALENTEJO: ROMANCE AND LOVE STORIES WITH A TOUCH OF FADO
BY ERIC RENE PENOY
Why ALENTEJO 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
ALENTEJO Wedding and Elopement Photography Service. FOR ADVENTUROUS COUPLES IN SEARCH OF THE MOST WONDERFUL CEREMONY.
TOP VENUES FOR YOUR DREAM DESTINATION WEDDINGS IN ALENTEJO
Your Wedding Adventure – A Unique Story to Tell
As wedding photographers passionate about capturing raw emotions and authentic moments, we offer a 2-3 day storytelling experience to document your unique love story. From pre-wedding beach adventures to sunset vineyard sessions and intimate vow exchanges under the stars, we craft a visual narrative that makes your wedding truly one of a kind. Every couple’s journey is different, and we aim to create images that reflect your love, your adventure, and your dream wedding in Alentejo.
ALENTEJO Wedding and Elopement Photographer: Capturing Timeless Love Stories
Portugal, a country of breathtaking landscapes, rich history, and warm hospitality, is rapidly becoming one of the most sought-after destinations for weddings and elopements. With its golden beaches, picturesque vineyards, enchanting castles, and stunning cliffs overlooking the Atlantic Ocean, Portugal offers an unparalleled romantic backdrop for couples seeking an intimate and unforgettable experience. Whether you dream of a fairy-tale wedding in a historic palace, a rustic celebration in the heart of the Douro Valley, or a seaside elopement with the waves crashing behind you, Portugal has it all.
One of the greatest appeals of Portugal is its diverse settings that cater to various wedding styles. From the vibrant cityscape of Lisbon and Porto to the serene beauty of the Azores and Madeira, every corner of the country offers a unique charm. The country’s favorable weather, delicious cuisine, and affordability compared to other European wedding destinations further enhance its desirability.
Beyond the stunning locations, Portugal’s wedding industry is thriving, with experienced planners, talented photographers, and world-class venues ready to bring your vision to life. Whether you are planning a grand celebration with your loved ones or a private elopement to exchange vows in solitude, Portugal ensures that your special day is nothing short of magical.
In this article, we will explore why Portugal is the best location for an intimate wedding or elopement, the most enchanting venues, and how a wedding photographer can capture your love story against the most mesmerizing backdrops.
WHY ALENTEJO?
Why Portugal is Perfect for Weddings and Elopements
Romantic Atmosphere –
Alentejo’s quiet countryside, coastal cliffs, and medieval villages provide the perfect setting for a love-filled celebration.
Rich Culture and History –
With ancient castles, traditional Portuguese towns, and UNESCO sites, Alentejo offers a wedding experience steeped in history and charm.
Breathtaking Landscapes –
From rolling vineyards and golden plains to stunning beaches and rugged cliffs, the region offers endless picturesque backdrops.
Mild Weather Year-Round –
Alentejo boasts a Mediterranean climate, making it an excellent wedding destination any time of year.
VERY EASY ACCESS WORLDWIDE
Iconic Locations for YOUR PortUGUESE Wedding Photography
Exclusive and Tranquil –
Unlike more tourist-heavy locations, Alentejo provides a private and peaceful setting for an intimate wedding.
World-Class Food and Wine –
Indulge in Alentejo’s renowned cuisine, from traditional dishes to fine dining experiences, paired with its exquisite wines.
Easy Accessibility –
With Lisbon and Faro airports nearby, Alentejo is easily accessible for both local and international guests.
Adventure and Exploration –
Whether it's a boat trip on Alqueva Lake, a horseback ride through the vineyards, or a scenic coastal hike, there are plenty of experiences to enhance your wedding adventure.
STILL NOT
CONVINCED?
What are the most beautiful/magical locations to get married in ALENTEJO?
GET access to our favorite wedding venues in Portugal to get inspired.
ELEVATE YOUR WEDDING EXPERIENCE IN PORTUGAL
Dream Weddings Start in ALENTEJO
Alentejo, Portugal, is one of the most breathtaking and romantic destinations for couples seeking a dream wedding or elopement. With its golden beaches, stunning cliffs, rolling vineyards, and picturesque villages, this region offers the perfect backdrop for an unforgettable celebration of love. Whether you're looking for an intimate beach ceremony, a rustic countryside wedding, or a luxurious vineyard experience, Alentejo has it all. This article will guide you through the best locations for weddings and elopements in Alentejo and explain why it is the perfect destination for travelers and adventure-seekers looking to tie the knot in a unique and breathtaking setting
ALENTEJO
Alentejo – A Rustic, CULINARY and Authentic Wedding Experience
Alentejo’s rolling plains, historic estates, and traditional villages offer a peaceful, sun-soaked retreat, perfect for couples who appreciate quiet romance and a connection to Portugal’s rural charm.
Close to Lisbon, the Alentejo region is a Portuguese jewel. With beautiful beaches and nature, it can offer amazing venues and great wine. Here are my top 5 best wedding venues in Alentejo.
Vila Galé Beja
If you are looking for a complete hotel with a countryside style with integrated nature, this one is for you. With beautiful gardens and a full structure to offer comfort to your guests, this venue can support up to 200 people.
Herdade dos Grous
In the heart of Alentejo, this venue has a romantic view over olive and orange trees, even being a wine producer with recognizable quality and awards. It can support up to 300 guests and has a chapel and gardens as far as the eyes can see.
Pousada dos Arraiolos
This venue is a reformed monastery from the 16th century, with a capacity for weddings from 160 to 300 guests. It has a beautiful chapel decorated with classic blue tiles, gardens, and fountains, for a special outdoor reception.
Dá Licença
Dá Licença is a luxurious Alentejo wedding venue with breathtaking landscapes, artistic design, and serene elegance.
L'and Vineyards
L'AND Vineyards is a romantic Alentejo wedding venue with vineyard views, modern luxury, and a serene ambiance.
São Lourenço do Barrocal
São Lourenço do Barrocal is an elegant Alentejo wedding venue blending rustic charm with luxurious comfort.
Comporta – Chic Beachfront Weddings
Comporta, a trendy yet tranquil coastal village, offers stunning sandy beaches and an exclusive atmosphere. With its luxurious villas and eco-friendly resorts, it's perfect for couples looking for a stylish and elegant beach wedding.
Why Choose Comporta?
Exclusive and peaceful atmosphere
Stunning beachfront venues with breathtaking ocean views
Luxury accommodations and fine dining options
2. Monsaraz – Medieval Romance in a Hilltop Village
For a fairy-tale wedding, Monsaraz provides the perfect setting. This ancient hilltop village, with its whitewashed houses and medieval castle, offers stunning views over the Alqueva Lake, Europe's largest artificial lake.
Why Choose Monsaraz?
Historic charm and timeless romance
Incredible panoramic views of Alentejo’s landscapes
Ideal for sunset and night-time weddings under a sky full of stars
3. Vila Nova de Milfontes – The Best of Cliffs and Beaches
Nestled along the rugged coastline, Vila Nova de Milfontes is a hidden paradise. With its dramatic cliffs and pristine beaches, it's an ideal destination for an intimate elopement or an adventurous wedding.
Why Choose Vila Nova de Milfontes?
Unspoiled natural beauty with dramatic landscapes
Stunning venues overlooking the Atlantic Ocean
Perfect for couples who love adventure and the outdoors
4. Évora – A UNESCO World Heritage Wedding Destination
Évora, one of Portugal's most charming cities, is perfect for history lovers. With its Roman ruins, Gothic cathedral, and charming squares, it offers a truly magical setting for an elegant and classic wedding.
Why Choose Évora?
Rich historical and cultural background
Unique wedding venues, from palaces to ancient monasteries
A romantic city filled with charming cobblestone streets
5. Costa Vicentina – A Wild and Untamed Coastal Escape
For couples who love adventure and the raw beauty of nature, Costa Vicentina offers a breathtaking location with endless cliffs, hidden beaches, and vast, open landscapes.
Why Choose Costa Vicentina?
Dramatic and untamed scenery for adventurous couples
Unique wedding photography opportunities with wild landscapes
Ideal for nature-inspired, boho, and rustic weddings
6. Alqueva Lake – A Celestial Wedding Under the Stars
Imagine exchanging vows under one of the clearest night skies in the world. Alqueva Lake offers stunning lakeside venues with breathtaking sunsets and a starlit sky, making it a magical choice for intimate weddings.
Why Choose Alqueva Lake?
Official Dark Sky Reserve for a celestial-themed wedding
Beautiful waterfront locations with a peaceful ambiance
A unique and unforgettable experience
7. Marvão – A Fairytale Castle Wedding
Marvão, a medieval village perched on a mountain, offers one of the most scenic wedding locations in Portugal. Surrounded by ancient castle walls and panoramic views, it’s perfect for an enchanting and intimate ceremony.
Why Choose Marvão?
Castle ruins providing an epic wedding backdrop
Romantic, historic ambiance with breathtaking views
Ideal for couples wanting a secluded and private celebration
8. Porto Covo – Serenity by the Sea
A charming coastal town with beautiful blue waters, Porto Covo is ideal for couples who dream of a relaxed and intimate wedding by the sea. The golden beaches and rustic charm create a naturally stunning backdrop.
Why Choose Porto Covo?
Tranquil and romantic ambiance
Stunning seaside landscapes with warm golden sands
Perfect for intimate beach weddings and sunset ceremonies
HOW TO GET MARRIED IN ALENTEJO
LEGALLY MARRIED IN ALENTEJO
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 ALENTEJO
The Alentejo region of Portugal, known for its vast landscapes, rolling hills, and charming villages, offers a stunning backdrop for a wedding. If you're planning a wedding here, choosing the right time of year is crucial to ensure a perfect celebration. The best time to get married in Alentejo largely depends on weather conditions, local festivals, and the desired atmosphere.
The spring and autumn months are generally considered the best times to marry in Alentejo. From April to June and from September to October, the weather is mild and pleasant, with daytime temperatures ranging from 18°C to 25°C (64°F to 77°F). This period avoids the scorching heat of summer while offering long, sunny days, perfect for outdoor ceremonies and receptions. The countryside blooms in spring, and the fall brings a beautiful array of golden hues to the vineyards and olive groves, making it an ideal time for picturesque photos.
Summer, from June to September, can be quite hot in Alentejo, with temperatures often exceeding 35°C (95°F), especially in July and August. While some couples may appreciate the warmth, the extreme heat can be uncomfortable for guests, especially if the celebration is outdoors. The region's secluded countryside offers a peaceful retreat during the summer months, but it’s important to consider the need for shaded venues or indoor spaces with air conditioning.
For those looking to avoid large crowds and take advantage of off-peak rates, winter can also be a good option. While temperatures drop, they remain relatively mild compared to other regions of Europe, and the lack of tourists ensures a more intimate and private experience.
Ultimately, the best time to get married in Alentejo is when the weather and scenery align with your vision, ensuring a memorable and stress-free celebration.
CONCLUSION
YOUR ADVENTURE STARTS HERE
PortUGAL 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 PORTUGAL.
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.
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Alentejo is a Portuguese region located in the southeast of the country. It has an area of 27,330 km2 and registered in 2023 a population of 474,701 inhabitants [with a population density of 17 inhabitants per km2 , being the seventh most populous region in Portugal and the largest region in the country.
The capital of the region is located in the city of Évora , where the Alentejo Regional Coordination and Development Commission is located , the decentralized regional public administration body, responsible for coordinating and implementing regional development policies, territorial planning, land use and the environment .
It is one of the nine regions of Portugal , consisting of the following four sub-regions :
which are divided into 47 municipalities and 231 parishes . It borders the Center to the north , the Spanish region of Estremadura to the northeast , the Spanish region of Andalusia to the southeast , the Algarve to the south , the Atlantic Ocean to the west and the West and Tagus Valley and the Setúbal Peninsula to the northwest .
In 2022, it recorded a gross domestic product of 10.3 billion euros , thus having the second largest regional economy in the country with a share of around 5% of the national economy. In terms of GDP per capita, the region records a value of 22,902 euros .
Alentejo is a region of Portugal known for its rural and natural landscape, warm and dry climate, wine-producing farms, traditional gastronomy, historical and cultural heritage, and the famous Alentejo hospitality. In addition, the region is famous for its olive groves, cork production and cattle farming. It is also a popular tourist destination, attracting visitors interested in outdoor activities such as hiking, cycling and birdwatching, as well as enjoying the tranquility and beauty of the region.
Alentejo is a magical wedding destination that offers romance, adventure, and unforgettable scenery. Whether you dream of a chic beachfront ceremony, a historic castle wedding, or an intimate elopement under the stars, this region has it all. With its incredible landscapes, world-class cuisine, and peaceful ambiance, Alentejo provides the perfect setting for couples looking to create lasting memories.
If you're seeking an intimate, unique, and breathtaking wedding experience, Alentejo is the place to be. And with our expertise in wedding photography, we will capture every heartfelt moment, turning your love story into a visual masterpiece that you will cherish forever.
Are you ready to embark on your wedding adventure in Alentejo? Let's make your dream wedding come true.
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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.
