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Portugal:
an independent kingdom since 1143, the Portuguese language became one of the most widely spoken in the world - medieval hilltop towns, exceptional wine and food, and unforgettable sights. The Portuguese people may prove the most interesting part of your trip. Their nostalgic character relishes the past even as the country seeks a place in contemporary Europe. Portugal is among the oldest nations in Europe and located on the extreme southwest corner of Europe. Traces of this worldwide historic presence may be seen as trademarks of the Portuguese genius. The Portuguese language became one of the most widely spoken in the world, and the Portuguese people were privileged for being exposed to so many different civilizations. The vast monumental, artistic and archaeological heritage does witness not only the 850 years of history of encounters with distant cultures, but also the presence in the territory of more ancient peoples (Celts, Suevians, Visigoths, Romans and Arabs). The natural advantages of a sunny country with such diverse geographic features have turned Portugal into a chosen destination for many holidaymakers, an ideal place for practicing water sports and playing golf, offering modern tourism facilities, and quaint and personalized means of accommodation, such as turismo de habitação (privately owned homes ranging from wonderful farmhouses to manor houses), hotéis de charme or pousadas. Lisbon is the capital of Portugal - The history of Lisbon goes back more than twenty centuries. As well as being a modern and cosmopolitan city, Lisbon also shows the typical life of the old quarters, with distinctive medieval architecture, narrow streets where the old houses stand side by side with old palaces and imposing churches. Lisbon has been the scene for some international cultural festivals and in 1998 hosted the last World Exposition of the century of which the subject was `The Oceans: a heritage for the future`. Portugal is a long, narrow country on the Iberian Peninsula, at the southwestern edge of Europe. Mountains run through the eastern part of the country, and to the west the Atlantic Ocean meets an extensive seacoast, creating many excellent harbours. In the southernmost province, the Algarve, beaches, marshes and cliffs mark the coast. Two island groups in the Atlantic, the Azores and Madeira, are also part of Portugal. Both are green and fairly remote. The natural advantages of a sunny country with diverse geographic features have turned Portugal into a chosen destination for many holiday makers. It is an ideal place for water sports and golf, offering modern tourism facilities, as well as historic and personalized accommodations, such as turismo de habitação (less expensive lodging in private homes ranging from wonderful farmhouses to manor houses), the privately owned Hotéls de Charme or the government-operated pousadas. For centuries, Portugal has maintained this greatest treasure: a reputation for hospitality that makes the country a haven of congeniality and safety.
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