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Portugal’s cultural offering has become more diverse in recent years,
particularly with the opening of new event venues in the large cities (Lisbon
and Oporto). Portugal has its own theatre tradition (the revista - revue
or musical comedy) and many small museums and galleries, even in smaller cities.
The Fado, particularly in Lisbon and Coimbra, is known the world over
as the national music. Folklore is also fairly rich and varied, ranging from
music and costume, inspired by the Celtic north of the country, to the Algarve’s
Corridinho (traditional folklore music and dance).
Most cities have cinemas that mostly show English language films. Films and
TV programmes are not dubbed, but generally have subtitles in Portuguese.
There are some themed film festivals, and interesting music festivals during
the summer, as well as many, diverse fairs and local festas [fairs]. These are
popular events, throughout the year and in practically all the smaller towns and
villages. The commemorations of the popular saints’ days which take place in
June with processions and festivities in the streets of Lisbon, Oporto and other
cities, are particularly interesting and worth a visit.
The people
The Portuguese are generally reserved and patient and also accept what is
different, are flexible and open to experimentation. The Catholic Church still
has a considerable influence, even though the majority of ‘Catholics’ say
that they are non-practising. The family is still the basis of Portuguese life.
Business culture
The Portuguese are not very punctual when it comes to business meetings, but
they expect people to telephone if they are going to be delayed. Although
younger people speak English, it is very difficult to find a company that will
hire non-Portuguese-speaking workers. In the employment context, the Portuguese
are somewhat conservative and formal, both in terms of dress and in terms of
manners. It is customary to use people’s titles, such as Doctor, Engineer,
Architect, etc., to preserve the hierarchy and to show respect for someone’s
education.
Meals and Social Activity
Portuguese cuisine is highly diversified, rich in vegetables, meat and fish.
Shellfish are also popular. The country is also well-known for its excellent
wines. The best-known fortified wine is Port.
Even during the working week, it is customary to take one hour for lunch. It is
also normal to drink wine at mealtimes.
Football is the national sport, but there are also other popular pastimes, such
as athletics and cycling. The cities have good sports facilities (in return for
payment), particularly for water sports, football, golf, tennis, physical
exercise, etc.
Times:
- Restaurants: lunch from 12:00 to 15:00 and dinner from 19:30 to 23:00,
sometimes much later
- Bars: from 22:00 to 04:00
- Discotheques: from 24:00 to 06:00
Text last edited March 2008
Source: European Union
© European Communities, 1995-2009
Reproduction is authorised.
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