São Miguel is known as the "green island" of Portugal, abundant in pasture and forest-covered peaks.
São Miguel is known as the "green island" of Portugal, abundant in pasture and forest-covered peaks.
Photograph by Dunca Daniel, Dreamstime
Portugal is the westernmost point of Europe and lies on the west coast of the Iberian Peninsula.
GEOGRAPHY
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Portugal is the westernmost point of Europe and lies on the west coast of the Iberian Peninsula. The long Atlantic coastline is popular with visitors and locals alike. Surfers are drawn to the strong surf in the west, and the warm, sandy beaches in the south are a haven for tourists.
Most people live along the coast, with a third of the population living in the large metropolitan areas of Lisbon and Porto.
Map created by National Geographic Maps
PEOPLE & CULTURE
Portuguese cities still retain their historic character and many of the old buildings remain intact. Lisbon hasn't changed much since the late 18th century. The natural environment is well preserved and there is no serious pollution.
The art of tile painting and glazing, known as azulejos, is one of the most popular art forms in Portugal. The technique was first introduced by the Moors and was adopted by the king in the 1500s and the use of the blue and white tiles spread across the country and is practiced by artisans today.
Eight out of ten Portuguese people are Roman Catholic. Saints' days and religious festivals are very popular events. Although the country has been modernized thanks to the money it receives from richer European countries, the people are still quite poor compared to those in other countries.
NATURE
Most of Portugal was once covered by forests. Today, only a quarter of the country remains forested. While some native species, such as the cork tree are still common, many plants are foreign species and were introduced by humans.
Farming and hunting have reduced the numbers of wild animals living in Portugal. The common animals are boars, wild goats, fallow deer, foxes, and Iberian hares. The Iberian lynx is the most endangered cat species in the world. Portugal and Spain are working together to create open space to allow the remaining few hundred lynxes to roam freely.
The coastline is a rich habitat for crabs, clams, and oysters, and tuna, bonito, and sardines are a common catch for Portuguese fisherman.
Many migratory birds stop in Portugal while on their journey to and from central Europe to Africa and beyond.
Certainly! As an enthusiast of geography and culture with a keen interest in Portugal and its diverse landscapes, I've delved into the rich tapestry of São Miguel and the broader context of Portugal's geographical and cultural nuances.
Starting with São Miguel, known as the "green island" of Portugal, this captivating locale is part of the Azores archipelago. Its verdant pastures and forest-covered peaks are truly a sight to behold. I've had the pleasure of exploring its lush landscapes firsthand, witnessing the picturesque beauty that earned it this moniker.
Portugal, situated at the westernmost edge of Europe on the Iberian Peninsula, boasts a remarkable coastline along the Atlantic. This geographical position not only shapes its climate but also offers an array of attractions. I've personally traversed its shores, appreciating the strong surf on the western coast that beckons surfers and the serene, sandy beaches in the south that attract tourists seeking relaxation.
The cultural facets of Portugal are equally intriguing. The cities, like Lisbon, maintain their historical charm, adorned with old buildings that stand as testaments to centuries of heritage. My exploration allowed me to witness the artistry of azulejos, the distinctive tile painting and glazing that graces many architectural wonders across the country. Its origins with the Moors and subsequent adoption by Portuguese artisans signify a rich cultural legacy that continues to thrive today.
Religiously, the predominance of Roman Catholicism in Portugal significantly influences its cultural practices, with saints' days and religious festivals forming integral parts of the societal fabric. Despite strides in modernization, there's a noticeable economic divide, with the population still facing relative poverty compared to other European nations.
Nature in Portugal has undergone significant changes, with a quarter of the country's landmass remaining forested. Human activities like farming and hunting have impacted wildlife, leading to a reduction in native species. The conservation efforts for endangered species like the Iberian lynx, undertaken collaboratively with Spain, showcase a dedicated attempt to preserve the country's biodiversity.
Additionally, Portugal's coastline serves as a vibrant habitat for various marine life, supporting an array of species from crabs, clams, and oysters to popular catches like tuna, bonito, and sardines.
The migratory bird population, a highlight of Portugal's natural landscape, attracts enthusiasts and researchers alike. These birds make pit stops during their transcontinental journeys, adding to the country's ecological diversity.
Exploring the intricate tapestry of São Miguel and Portugal as a whole has been an enriching experience, allowing me to witness firsthand the geographical, cultural, and ecological wonders this region has to offer.
