Portugal is the country graced by one of Europe’s most relaxed and attractive capitals. It is rich in beautiful beach resorts, wistful towns and a landscape wreathed in olive groves, vineyards and wheat fields. The country’s history has a long-lasting impact on its culture with Moorish and Oriental influences in architecture and the arts. Traditional folk dance and music is very lively and exciting. One of the biggest events held in the country is Carnaval. It features

partying, parading and painted faces and is celebrated six weeks before Easter. The other festivals held are Braga’s Easter or Holy Week Festival, Festa de Sao Joao and Feira de Sao Martinho. Braga’s Easter Festival is celebrated with vast and colourful processions. The Festa de Sao Joao takes place in June. In this festival, people dances through the streets, amicably hitting each other over the head with leeks. The Feira de Sao Matinho in November celebrated

with bullfights horse riding contests. Major public holidays include New Year’s Day, Good Friday, Liberty Day, Labour Day, Portugal Day, Republic Day, Independence Day and Christmas

Day.

The major attractions of Portugal are Lisbon, Lagos, Evora and Sintra. Lisbon is one of the most enjoyable and economical cities in Europe. The city is rich in architectural masterpieces, museums and stunning sites to view. Lagos is the country’s most popular tourist resorts. It has the superb beaches including Meia Praia and Praia do Pinhão. The highlight of Lagos is the museum called Museu Municipal which displays of religious treasures and other fascinating curios. Evora is one of the architectural charms of the country. Its located in a picturesque landscape of olive groves, vineyards, wheat fields and brilliant spring flowers. Its a charming town with a cathedral, a roman temple and a ghoulish ossuary chapel constructed

from the bones and skulls of several thousand people. Sintra is a beautiful city with romantic gardens, Gothic architecture and 16th century hermitages. Portuguese cuisine includes Sardinhas Asadas - charcoal-grilled sardines, Pastéis De Bacalhau - cod fishcakes and Caldo Verde - a soup of cabbage and potatoes. Seafood dishes are Linguado Grelhado - grilled sole and Bife de Atúm - tuna steak are appetising staples. One of the popular dishes is the custard tarts known as Pastéis de Nata. The famous beverage is wine called Vinhos.