Explore Portugal’s fascinating superstitions and folk beliefs, from lucky charms to old sayings, while learning European Portuguese vocabulary and expressions connected to these traditions.
The Hands of Fátima, also known as Hamsa, is a symbol with roots in Islamic and Jewish traditions. It is commonly depicted as a hand with an open palm and an eye in the centre, symbolizing protection, blessings, and divine grace. In Portuguese culture, particularly in regions with a strong Moorish influence like the Algarve, … Read more
Olá pessoal! Today, I want to talk about a folk aspect of Portuguese culture that intertwines belief, tradition, and a touch of mysticism – Quebranto. If you’re superstitious, you’ll need to know about this. What is it? Now, what exactly is “Quebranto“? In simple terms, quebranto is a folk belief that describes a state of … Read more
Did you know you should slip a coin to someone who gifts you a knife? It’s a curious practice, não é? (isn’t it?) But why do we do this in Portugal? Let’s unlock Tradition: The Knife Gift and The Coin in Portugal. Dive into the fascinating world of symbolism behind this age-old tradition. 🪙🔪 A … Read more
Superstitions have been around since the dawn of mankind. Although Portugal is historically a Christian country, many traditional folk superstitions have survived alongside religious beliefs. In this post, we’ll be looking at 13 Superstitions in Portugal. The Portuguese, like many cultures, have consolidated and preserved cultural values passed down from generation to generation. A superstition … Read more
Step into the vibrant traditions of New Year in Portugal! As the echoes of Christmas fade away, we gear up for an enchanting celebration filled with unique customs and superstitions. For your linguistics needs, be sure to watch the video below. Portuguese New Year’s Eve Expressions A New Beginning January 1st is a festive date … Read more