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PortugalINTRODUCTION One of the most interesting features of Portugal is it's vastly changing landscape, mother nature works quick here and this amazing landscape will vary from wonderfully green mountains and valleys to rugged dry desert in the space of a couple of hours drive. Full of history as well as vibrant nightlife and delicious cuisine, Portugal pleases a wide range of tourists every year. Lisbon is the country's capital and most important city. Portugal's second largest city is Porto, which sits along the Duoro River?. Another famous river is the Tagus. Other Cities HISTORY The First County of Portugal was formed in 868 after the Reconquista where Christians took back control of the Iberian Penninsula from the Muslims and Moors. It was formed into a kingdom in 1139 after the Battle of Ourique when Afonso Henriques proclaimed himself king. In 1383, Portugal was almost taken over by the Spanish king, but claimed independence with the Battle of Aljubarrota. Portugal played a major role in the exploring the world. Between 1580 and 1640, Portugal again became under Spanish rule when Phillip II named himself king. In 1910, the Portuguese monarchy was disposed of. Chaos led to takeover by dictator António de Oliveira Salazar. A military coup known as the Carnation Revolution in 1974 led to the establishment of a democracy. KNOW BEFORE YOU GO Climate: Portugal is generally cool and rainy in the north, and warm in the south Languages: Portuguese, Mirandese Capital: Lisbon Time Zone: DST +0100 UTC Currency: Euro Power: 230 V, 50 Hz ATTRACTIONS Igreja de São Roque This chapel was designed and built in Rome over eight years using the most expensive materials possible, you will wonder at the amethyst, alabaster, agate, jade, lapis lazuli and Carrara marble. The four mosaics representing events from the saint's life are as elaborate as all the oil paintings. Conimbriga Ruins The Conimbriga site dates back to Celtic times, and was developed by the Romans into a major city. Museu Calouste Gulbenkian This museum is set in a sleek 1960's building and is host to over 6,000 pieces spanning major epochs of Western and Eastern art. Beautiful gardens surround the space, and touch-screens provide information on some of the museum's works. Torre de Belém Designed by the brilliant Arruda brothers, Diogo and Francisco, this incredible tower is a mix of early Gothic, Byzantine and Manueline styles. Manuel I built it around 1515 to guard the entrance to Lisbon's harbor. RESTAURANTS LODGING Pao de Acucar Bed & Breakfast - This 3 Star hotel is located in Porto and is in walking distance to attractions, restaurants and shopping. Sofitel Lisboa - This 5 star hotel is located in the heart of Lisboa and has everything you would expect from those 5 Stars. Within easy walking distance to attractions, shopping and dining. Hotel Jorge V - A 3 Star Hotel that can be found in the city center, the hotel offers room service and is within easy walking distance to shops and dining. PERSONAL STORIES 
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