Portuguese folk traditions take many forms. From the musical form fado to ceramics and tiles to its maritime culture, Portuguese folk arts are all in some way representative of the nation s history and geography. Located on the Iberian Peninsula in Western Europe, Portugal has always been a sea-faring nation. In the 15th and 16th centuries, Portuguese explorers charted the way to Africa, Asia and India, opening new avenues of global trade. Because the nation faces the Atlantic Ocean and has many rivers flowing around and through its land, ship-building and fishing have always been among Portugal s primary industries.
Seafood is a favorite menu at every Portuguese table.
These can all be sampled at Portuguese feasts, popular in America and beloved by non-Portuguese as well. Of course, if seated at a Portuguese table, be prepared to tip back a few glasses of Port wine, the strong, sweet red wine for which the Portuguese are famous. Traditional Portuguese table settings include far more than just the food. Originating with the role of women in the home, many of the nation s folk art forms center on the table. One such craft is crochet, which is usually used to make doilies to decorate the table.