The Portuguese

The Portuguese are world wide known as poets and navigators.
Although formed of such different elements, the population of Portugal is one of the most homogeneous in Europe and the vast majority of Portuguese (some 95 percent) are Roman Catholic. Less than 1 percent of the population is Protestant, with Anglicans, Methodists, Brethren and Congregationalists comprising the oldest and largest denominations. The jewish population has remained small since the late 15th-century Inquisition, which forced Jews to convert or emigrate.

Dancing and singing play a prominent part in the life of the people. Small accordions are often used to accompany dances and Portuguese guitars accompany the 'Fado', a song form known all over the world that optimises 'saudade', the yearning, romantic aspect of the Portuguese character.

Humble, charming and welcoming, Portuguese refine the art of welcoming, not only in the many structures available for tourism, but also in their own homes. There's a traditional song that says: "In a Portuguese house there is good bread and wine on the table and if someone knocks at the door, they sit at the table with us"!