Lisbon, 10 June 2022 (TDI): Portugal commemorates the death of Luís de Camões on June 10th, 1580, on its National Day. While the holiday is only officially observed in Portugal, Portuguese descendants around the world may observe it as well.
Luís de Camões was a lively character. He was shipwrecked off the coast of modern-day Vietnam after losing an eye in battle. Despite this, he kept swimming with one hand, holding the other above water.
Moreover, the year he died, Portugal lost its freedom to Spain, ushering in three generations of Spanish kings. It took more than 60 years for the country to restore its freedom.
Even though National day celebrates the death of Luís de Camões, his birth date is unknown. Official celebrations include participation from the President, Prime Minister, and other high-ranking officials. Awards and military exhibitions are also organized.
About Portugal
Portugal is a southern European country located on the Iberian Peninsula. It shares a border with Spain. Moreover, its location on the Atlantic Ocean has affected many aspects of its culture.
Cork Oak is Portugal’s national tree. The tree, like its people, is tenacious and adds significant economic and environmental benefits to the country of Portugal.
The country has become the world’s greatest producer of cork material due to the tree’s unique outer covering of cork. Stores across the country sell products made from cork.
The layers of the tree are protective and fire-resistant, making it an ideal home for a variety of insects and animals. Also, Águas de Moura, a tiny town in The Sobreiro Monumental in Moura, Portugal, has the tallest cork oak tree in the world.
Portuguese literature and art give value to it. Although Libson is the capital, the Portuguese President chooses a new location to host the festivities for the national day, each year.
On this public holiday, joyful crowds parade down city streets, dancing people celebrate their common Portuguese ancestry, and fireworks light up the sky.
Outside Portugal, there are significant Portuguese American populations in Massachusetts, Rhode Island, New Jersey, Florida, Louisiana, Nevada, California, and Hawaii in the United States. The celebrations spread around the country and the world.
Portugal Day greetings!