PROJET COMENIUS - E.P.E.I.T.E .

1. PROJET COMENIUS - E.P.E.I.T.E. «This project has been founded with the support from the European Commission. This publication (communication) reflects the views only of the author, and the Commission cannot be held responsable for any use which may be made of the information contained therein». Made by pupils of4 A/B Erica et 3 A Relazioni Internazionali Teacher contact: M.me Franca Miserocchi ISTITUTO TECNICO COMMERCIALE E GEOMETRA «LOPERFIDO-OLIVETTI » Matera, 20 décember 2012

2. GEOGRAPHY Portugal is a country in Southwestern Europe, on the Iberian peninsula . It is the westernmost country of mainland Europe, and is bordered by the Atlantic Ocean to the west and south and by Spain to the north and east. Apart from Continental Portugal, the Portuguese Republic holds sovereignty over the Atlantic archipelagos of Azores and Madeira, which are autonomous regions of Portugal. Portugal is divided by the Tagus river, which separates the rugged north from the rolling plains in the south. In the north, the landscape is an extension of the mountains of the Iberian Peninsula – forested and intersected by deep valleys. Between the Douro and the Tagus rivers there is the highest peak on the mainland, Serra da Estrela. However, Portugal’s highest point is Pico Alto on Pico Island in the Azores. South of the Tagus river, the landscape is characterized by wide plains, planted with mostly Mediterranean species including cork oaks, figs, olive trees and vineyards. Many of Portugal’s rivers originate in Spain and flow into the Atlantic Ocean, including the Minho, the Douro, the Tagus and the Guadiana rivers, creating a rich hydrographic network.

3. Why visit PORTUGAL The answer is simple; it's one of the most beautiful, charming and historically romantic European countries. The country is home to a variety of stunning beaches - forget the Algarve ... the entire Portuguese coastline is littered with hidden. Many tourists overlook Portugal as a place of interest, a country to explore, discover and ultimately - absorb and enjoy. Perhaps it's because of its position on the global map - the country's location is just a little off the beaten track. The country has a fascinating history, tales of sea faring heroes, venturing out into unchartered waters, discovering and conquering new lands. A rich cultural background, awash with tales of daring and adversity triumphs and tribulations. Fantastic architecture, both ancient and contemporary, often coexist side by side in perfect harmony. The indigenous population is arguably some of the most passionate, warm and openly happy people in the whole world. They love their country with an ardor that is personal both to the people and the country. Old fashioned manners and courtesy still exist, family is always important. The Portuguese are traditional and conservative. But what’s that? The famous «saudade» of the Portuguese is a vague and constant desire for something that does not and may not exist, for something other than the present, a turning towards the past or towards the future; not an active discontent or poignant sadness but an indolent dreaming wistfulness. Saudade is more than that. It is this huge feeling that overpowers you and sometimes you just can’t shake it off , especially when you feel saudades of something or someone you liked it very much (a place where you felt the happiest and you have known that since then, maybe).

4. According to historians, this word came to life in the 15th Century when Portuguese ships sailed to Africa and Asia. A sadness was felt for those who departed in the long journeys to the unknown and disappeared in shipwrecks, died in battle, or simply never returned. Those who stayed behind women, children and old folks – deeply suffered from their absence. There was the constant feeling of something that was missing, the yearning for the presence of the loved ones who had sailed. In Portugal, music comes in various guises from traditional folk music to rock music, and there are also some important detours to fado and distinctive sounds from the former colonies. Its soul comes from long ago, when Portugal was at the peak of its maritime explorations, and its spirit is called saudade, which is very hard to translate but roughly equates to 'beautiful melancholy' or 'heart-rending nostalgia', and the form emerged in poor communities during the 19th century. A solo singer is usually accompanied by a viola de fado or guitarra The sound is quite enchanting even to a non-speaker but the poetical lyrics are the key to its sadness.

5. usefuls Informations Are you travelling to Portugal for the first time? It is always useful to have a bit of background knowledge about a new destination. LANGUAGE When you travel in any country, it is important to make an effort to speak the local language. Portuguese can be a tricky language to master, but many Portuguese people speak English and will be happy to help. Learning how to say ‘por favor’ and ‘obrigada/o’ (please and thank you) always makes a difference!Portugal is profoundly Roman Catholic. There is sayng that “to be Portuguese is to be Catholic” and approximately 97% of the population considerede itself Roman Catholic – the highest percentage in Western Europe. Only about one-third of the population go to mass and take the sacraments regulary, but nealy all Portuguese wish to be baptized and married in the church and to receive its last rites. TIMEZONE When you arrive in Portugal, you must back an hour your watches by Italy. And if you go to Aores or Madre, calculate 2 hours under report. Currency The currency in Portugal is the Euro. Portugal shares the Euro with 16 other countries in the European Union including Spain, France Etc. Most visitors use local Multibanco (ATMs) to withdraw money DOCUMENTS of identitou passport validity to travel abroad. Warning meet Italian provisions for travel documents for minors must always be Accompanied. For more information, contact the Embassy of Portugal in Italy (23 Lieigi Avenue, Rome, Tel. 06.844801).

6. Health and insurance For more information you can visit the Minister of SantSection website "Italians abroad and foreigners in Italy." emergency: 112 Free and open daily 24 hours in any 24 EU countries Getting there Air: There is no direct flight from Bari departure or destination Braga Oporto. Every day, dozens of flights departure from Italy to Portugal ensure a comfortable flight to Lisbon or Oporto direct flights from Rome and Milan. Communications between Lisbon and other Italian cities like Naples, Florence, Turin are insured by the Arian companies Lufthansa and Air One. Interesting offers are also guaranteed by the Arian low cost airlines: Ryanair, Vueling, Easyjet Public transport Major cities are well served by public transport. Lisbon in particular, has four metro lines and an extensive network of trams; in addition, bus services between major cities is very good. Train In Portugal The rail network is taut and well-articulated -Caminhos de Ferro Portugueses www.cp.pt Euro lines guarantees the departure from northern Italy to Barcelone but after arriving in Spain after 20 hours you have to change buses too. Taxi Taking a cream coloured taxi is very nice because you get your driver as the first very agreable guide.And to get to the town center you can take a taxi, bus or Airbus at a very reasonable price.

7. USEFULS INFORMATIONS If you lose your passport, you can contact your local Consulate or Embassy. The Italian Embassy in Portugal: Conde de pombeiros 6, Lisbonne, tel. 00351.21.3515320.Portugal Tourism Bureau: Via Paolo de Cannobio 8, Milan tel. 02.00629010. Telephone numbers Italian prefix:. 00351 Portuguese Prefix : 0039 suivi du numéro. National Emergency Number (Fire, Police and Ambulance): 112 When to go? Portugal is a country of marked regional diversity, with the lush forests and mountain ranges of the north and centre contrasting greatly with the arid plains and coastline beaches of the south. In general, it boasts a temperate climate all year round with long hot summers, warm spring and autumn months and relatively mild winters, although temperatures and climatic conditions are conditioned by these regional disparities.Spring and autumn months bring lovely mild weather which is perfect for sightseeing and travelling around the interior to witness the blossoming countryside in spring and the grape harvests in autumn. Intermittent showers that may occur are usually of short duration. Don’t forget Spring and autumn months bring lovely mild weather which is perfect for sightseeing and travelling around the interior to witness the blossoming countryside in spring and the grape harvests in autumn. Intermittent showers that may occur are usually of short duration.

8. Portugal has a year-round good weather for the outdoors; this leaves you with many options of things to do and places to visit... Golf in Portugal If you’re a keen golfer you will find a wide range of facilities that are suitable for all levels of play, from the iconic greens of the Algarve to the rolling hills of the mountain regions in the north. This different and appealing landscape makes Portugal a popular destination for those who enjoy the outdoor pursuits of walking , hiking, horse-riding, mountain biking and road cycling. Surfing in Portugal Portugal is also a year-round seaside play ground, either on the golden beaches of the south or windsurfing off the Silver Coast with the beach of the south, the wild seas and sailing along the Atlantic coast, or the more restful fishing beach, there's something for everyone.Tennis is also very popular in Portugal. Across the country, there are tennis clubs with good instructors, mainly in the Algarve one of the most taken tourist destinations, except for the followers of the lazy life. Montgolfire Portuguese Algarve itself is not an extreme location however it offers plenty of opportunities for extreme sports and unusual activities such as paragliding, rock climbing and balloon rides. If you are the kind of person who likes to be in the air and feel the freedom, or just someone looking for an adrenaline rush we recommend you the following activities. There is nothing more liberating than being in the air! Feel the breeze on your face as you hang glide and watch the view as you climb the rocks of Algarve. For a more relaxing and effortless activity hop in the hot air ballon and enjoy a spectacular view.

9. Festivals and events In Portugal, "romarias (religious pilgrimages), festas (festivals) and Feiras" '(fairs) are very frquentes and paralyze activitdes for in many cities Often these events are crowns by a religious procession that ends with a series of activities. Celebrations are becoming more traditional and less touristy especially in the north where the population exhibits a deep religious spirit. Every year, on the night of 23 June, the city of Porto , in the north of Portugal, becomes lively and seemingly crazy. Thousands of people come to the city centre and to the most traditional neighborhoods to pay a tribute to Saint John the Baptist, in a party that mixes sacred and profane traditions. At midnight the partygoers make a short break to look at the sky at Saint John's firework spectacle. The show is increasingly sophisticated with the fireworks being associated with themes and multimedia shows. The party has sacred roots but is also mixed with pagan traditions, with the fireworks embodying the spirit of tribute to the SunAnnual religious festivals are an ideal way to discover the culture and traditions of the Minho.

10. FESTIVALS AND EVENTS Come to Braga at Easter, for example, and enjoy the festive atmosphere during the Semana Santa (Holy Week). Attend the Ecce Homo Procession on Good Friday, led by the Farricocos (barefoot men in tunics with hoods), one of the most peculiar parts of the Portuguese religious tradition. The new year 2013 is coming! Raising a toast of champagne on the arrival of the New Year is another important tradition, followed on New Year’s Eve in Portugal. As a part of the traditions followed on New Year’s Eve, the most widely accepted and observed tradition is eating twelve grapes. Apart from Portugal, this tradition has gained significance and popularity in many other countries. As a part of this tradition, one has to eat twelve grapes within a minute after the arrival of the New Year. One should get started as soon as clock rings twelve. Each grape is considered to represent a month of the coming year, and while eating each one of them, one is required to make a wish. Doing so is believed to fulfill one's wishes, and confer one with happy and fruitful twelve months ahead in the coming year. What unusual sight! The Christian traditions of Christmas time combine with the displays of rejoicing at the arrival of the New Year, in a rich and extensive program of cultural, ethnographic and artistic events that continue throughout the month of December and carry on till Twelfth Night.

11. From Algarve beaches to the breathtaking mountains of the north, Portugal is a land of contrasts. In between lie verdant floodplains, rolling plains and cork forests, wetland reserves… The east is dry and continental, the west milder, ocean-influenced, greener, especially the lush north west. Today, the country is linked and united as never before by fine new roads – just one sign of the prosperity that has spread across Portugal from the late ‘80s onwards. But tradition still lies at Portugal’s heart. Families spend time together, eat long meals together. Friends enjoy festivals, dancing, fado, café culture and eating out. Food and wine are fundamental. Occasional modern restaurants apart, tradition rules: hearty portions of local dishes, meat, hams and sausages, game in season, magnificent fish and seafood, the beloved salt cod (bacalhau), copious bread, rice and potatoes, and a bottle of olive oil always at the ready. Dessert is obligatory –1001 delightful combinations of egg yolks with sugar: lots of sugar.Food plays an important role in Portuguese culture. Traditional Portuguese dishes are often made from simple ingredients, based on regional produce with an emphasis on fish. The former colonies in Africa, India and the Far East have influenced Portuguese cuisine making it very different from the nearby Mediterranean countries. Many herbs and spices such as pepper, saffron, ginger and coriander were introduced into Europe by the Portuguese, as well as coffee, pineapples, potatoes and rice amongst other ingredients. Portuguese recipes are characterized by their use of a wide variety of spices, for example, piri piri (a spicy chilli pepper), vanilla, cinnamon and saffron. Southern Portuguese cuisine has Arab and Moorish influences and an old tradition of almond and fig sweets.

12. Meals Breakfast (pequeno almoço) consists mainly of milk, coffee, bread rolls or toast, butter and jam. Lunch (almoço) is the main meal of the day and can be a leisurely affair, while dinner (jantar) is usually served late in the evening. Portuguese restaurants are usually open for lunch from 12:00 to 15:00. Dinner is served between 19:30 and 23:00 although there are always a few restaurants that are open until 02:00. The Portuguese adore their snacks so if you feel a bit peckish in the evening, enjoy a light petisco (similar to Spanish tapas), which is served in many bars. Restaurant Eating and drinking is one of the pleasures of a visit to Portugal in general. There are a few things to know about Portugal dining that can be helpful. Although Portugal dining etiquette is nothing to be feared there are a few tips about things to do. Table manners are formal and Continental. If dining in a formal atmosphere or invited to join a Portuguese family dinner there are a few things that are good to know. The appetizers brought at the beginning of the meal are very much like the idea of Spanish tapas. Food is served in large quantities and fairly inexpensive with 8 Euros buying a hearty café meal and under 25 Euros enough to get a great meal in most restaurants. Appetizers include bread, cheese and an olive oil mixture for dipping bread into and are a customary start to a meal. Some restaurants charge for this while others don’t. So be sure to ask if there’s an extra charge. Stopping at one of the legendary cafés in Lisbon is mandatory, and there is a variety of restaurants specializing in everything from traditional Portuguese cuisine, to international or contemporary cuisine. First surprise: in Portuguese restaurants the appetizer is a bit different then our so you have to be careful. In fact, since you your seat at your table they will take a wide range of extra snacks of bread with butter, tuna, sardines or different variety of sausages, cheese, ricotta, shrimps, olives and stuff like that... But, if you do not want to pay an extra charge you have to refuse all these snacks ( it is difficut to resist, especially if there are such tempting appetizers) SECOND surprise: the size of every dish is extremely large, thus you can ask for a littler size or you can divide you dish in two or more parts according to your taste! Last surprise: the total price: undoubtedly it will weigh too much on your travel budget.

13. Typical dishes Portugal is famous for its food and wine. From the exquisite cuisine of the upmarket restaurants to the local “tascas”, you are guaranteed a delicious gastronomic experience. The more modern, recent restaurants offer vegetarian dishes with Portuguese fusion cuisine. One of the most popular meats in Portugal is pork, which can be cooked in a variety of ways. A popular pork dish is the carne de porco à Alentajana, an unusual combination of shellfish and pork. Pork cubes are fried after marinating in ‘massa de pimentão’ (a paste made of crushed red peppers), garlic, bay leaves, salt, pepper and white wine for about four hours. Clams are then cooked with the meat and garnished with lots of coriander. Roast suckling pig (leitão assado) is a speciality of Central Portugal. The most national famous fish dish is salted cod, bacalhau. The Portuguese have been obsessed with it since the early 16th century, when their fishing boats reached Newfoundland. Today there are about 365 different ways of preparing it, one for each day of the year. Each region has its own bacalhau speciality, for example bacalhau à Gomes de Sã from Porto (salted cod, potatoes and onions topped with eggs and onions) or bacalhau à bras from Estremadura (salt cod, potato, onion and scrambled eggs). Other popular fish include sardines, especially grilled . You cannot come to Portugal and not try grilled sardines! Fresh from the Atlantic ocean, sardines are amongst Portugal’s best fresh fish and are eaten from North to South. Served either on a simple slice of bread or with boiled potatoes and a delicious salad, Portugal’s freshly grilled sardines are an outstanding meal anytime. (sardinhas assadas), sea bass, octopus, squid (often stuffed), anchovies and swordfish, lobsters, crabs and clams are also very popular.

14. Soup forms an integral part of everyday meals in Portugal and, in some regions, may even be the main dish at dinner time. Made with a variety of rich ingredients, Portuguese soups are tasty, nourishing and many of them so filling that they often constitute a meal in themselves. There is an enormous variety of soups to choose in Portugal. Soup is served at most meals. Seasonal vegetables, fish and meat are used to make a variety of soups. One of the most famous Portuguese soups from Minho is the caldo verde, which consists of a mashed potato base, green Galician cabbage, olive oil and black pudding (tora) or slices of sausage, such as chouriço and salpicão. Bread soups (açordas) where shellfish and vegetables are added to thick slices of bread are found in all regions. In the south is popular the gaspacho: a soup of tomatoes, cucumber, onions, garlic, chillies and vinegar. It is very easy to make a "muito bom!" To understand how this soup is appreciated you must go to a fruits and vegetables shop. Beside the bench you will see a special machine. Trenching cabbage provides freshly cut cabbage strips, which are perfect for the caldo verde. But don’t forget the “açorda”: meat or fish flavored with garlic sauce, olive oil and coriander, “sopa de pedra”, etc RESTAURANTS Many Portuguese restaurants are closed on Sundays and Mondays for weekly rest. In addition it should be noted that in restaurants it is always best to book. Portuguese menu is called “ementa”, it isn’t the tourist menu, but the menu of the day. The “prato do dia” is the daily special and à lista means to choice the meals from the menu.

15. DESSERTS Many Portuguese sweets are a legacy of Moorish occupation, especially in Algarve . Try the “rebuçados da régua” in the city of Peso da Régua in Douro region. If you travel to Lisbon, stop by Bélem to try the famous “Pasteis de nata ” of Belém.  Have you ever tried Portuguese pastries? Not until!!!so don't move to Portugal and boy was I missing out!(elimina) leave Portugal without tasting that! There are said to be over two hundred varieties of little Portuguese sweet goodies – many rich egg-based custards, some chocolaty chocolate, others creamy, and several marzipan varieties. They can be found throughout the country in coffee shops, bakeries, and restaurants; and each town has its own local specialty. With names such as toucinho do céu (fat from heaven), papos de anjo (angel's double-chin) and barriga de freiras (nuns' belly), Portuguese sweets aren't only delicious, they're undoubtedly heaven-sent! Many of the desserts in Portugal are rich egg-based specialities, often seasoned with spices such as cinnamon and vanilla. A popular dessert is the arroz doce, a rice pudding flavoured with cinnamon and lemon. The Portuguese have a variety of cake and confectionary specialities that can be found in a pasteleria or confeitaria. Northern specialities are rich, very sugary and often flavoured with cinnamon, whereas in the south the sweetmeats reflect the local harvest of figs and almonds. Many of the country's typical pastries were created in the Middle Ages monasteries by nuns and monks and sold as a means of supplementing their incomes. The main ingredient for these Pastries was egg yolks.It is common belief that the medieva nuns used vast quantities of egg whites to stiffen their habits, and developed endless dessert recipes to use all the surplus yolks. However it is also known that Portugal had a big egg production, mainly between the eighteenth and nineteenth centuries, and that most of the egg whites were exported to be used as A purifier in white wine production or to iron suits.[5] The excess quantity of yolks, combined with plenty of sugar coming from the Portuguese colonies was the inspiration for the creation of wonderful recipes made from egg yolks. The names of these deserts are usually related to monastic life and to the Catholic faith. Examples are, among others, barriga de freira (nun's belly), papos de anjo (angel's chests), and toucinho do céu (bacon from heaven).

16. Other common ingredients in Portuguese convent confectionery are almonds, "doce de chila/gila" made from squash, wafer paper, and candied egg threads called "fios de ovos. Rich egg-based desserts are very popular in Portugal and are often seasoned with spices such as cinnamon and vanilla. The most popular are (a dessert consisting of an egg custard base topped with a layer of hard caramel), arroz doce (a typical and popular rice pudding), and pudim flã(a caramel custard). A dessert similar toarroz docebut made with a kind of vermicelli instead of rice, is also very popular. Cakes and pastries are also very popular in Portugal. Most towns have a local specialty, usually egg or cream based pastry. Originally from Lisbon, but popular nationwide, as well as among the diaspora, are pastéis de nata. These are small, extremely rich custard tarts. Other very popular pastries found in most cafes, bakeries and pastry shops across the country are the Bola de Berlim, the Pão-de-ló and the Tentúgal pastries. Pastéis de Belém Convents cakes are famous because of the history of the country and of Lisbon, which is called «bonne fourchette» and until the XIXth century it had thirty convents. Even pasta "Alfacinha" (Alfacinha - which literally means lettuce: it is the nickname given to the habitants of Lisbon, because it was the largest market of fruits and vegetables in the country that provided the capital especially with tomato and lettuce) keeps many secrets hidden for centuries in the silence of the monasteries. Bakery has a special respect and norms which have been established since 1575, when it was published the "Regiment Confeiteiros." During the Baroque period, for example, the cake was synonymous of art and all bakeries tried to follow this artistic movement developing their own products. Here there are some recipes easy to make and to eat and enjoy with a good glass of Old Por.t Follow our advice: do not think about the calories: a good candy gives incredible power and brings good mood! They take their name from one of the best races of the Tagus River in Lisbon: Belém - contraction of Bethlehem, the famous symbol of the city, the huge Monastery of Jeronimos, the Discoveries PadrŸo dos, special pastries filled with cream, baked and served hot or cold, sprinkled with cinnamon and sugar according to each taste.Enjoy your meal Papos-de-Anjo (Pancine di Angelo)

17. DRINKS Portugal is famous for its fortified wines : Port and Madeira. Port comes from the Douro region and Madeira from the island. These are great wines for an appetizer or as a digestif after a meal. However, Portuguese wine culture and expertise does not end with its fortified wines. The Douro region has become one of the most famous regions in the world for its DOC wines. As it is true of the chateaux in France, you will find wines denominated by Quintas in the Douro. The Alentejo and Dão regions make great red, white and rosé wines too. Good quality Port wine with permission to use age designation. Age designations are: 10 year old, 20 year old, 30 year old and over 40 year old. This Port is a tawny obtained from a blend of wines from several harvests in order to join different organoleptic characteristics (colour, aroma and flavour). The ageing period in wood is variable and the age on the wine’s label corresponds to the average age of the different wines used in the blend (mixture of two or more grape varieties). Enjoy a truly fascinating and intriguing wine tasting experience throughout Portugal!  Moscatel is a particularly aromatic grape variety, with citrus, flowery, ‘grapey’ flavours. It ripens to high sugar levels and is ideal for making sweet and fortified wines. Two regions of Portugal are famous for sweet made with fortified Moscatel: the Douro and the Peninsula of Setúbal, across the River Tagus from the city of Lisbon. it is also found a little elsewhere. BeerDuring meals, the Portuguese will also drink beer. However, a good, fresh beer is most appreciated in the late afternoon, at sunset.

18. In the heart of the green and fertile province of Minho, the district of Braga stretches from the sea inland, with a wooded scenery that undulates in gentle hills and valleys. Braga is situated in the heart of the fertile Minho province in north-western Portugal, surrounded by a gently rolling landscape of mountains and forests. One of Portugal's main religious centres, the city is famous for its baroque churches, splendid 18th century houses and beautiful parks and gardens. The old city is solemn and antique, although industry and commerce have brought a modern way of life, complemented by local universities, contemporary restaurants and lively bars. On Thursday mornings, Braga hosts the largest market in the region, with stalls selling everything from fresh produce to traditional ceramics. The city’s history is evident in its numerous churches and monuments, the principal landmarks including the striking Sé Cathedral and the 17th-century church of Santa Cruz. On a hill about 5 kilometres (3.1 miles) south-east stands the sanctuary of Bom Jesus do Monte, which is an important pilgrimage site. Beyond it is Mount Sameiro, where a colossal statue of the Virgin Mary overlooks the city. A short drive from Braga, the Citânia de Briteiros is an impressive archaeological site from the Iron Age.

19. Probably the main religious center in the country, Braga is known for its baroque churches, magnificent 18th century houses and elaborate gardens and squares. Known, in the Roman era as “Bracara Augusta”, it was also the headquarters of the Portuguese bishopric in the XII century. Braga’s long history can be seen in its monuments and churches. The most impressive church is the Sé, which has several styles, from Romanesque to Baroque. Braga is also proud of its splendid houses, especially the 18th century ones. We will soon add new attractions included in the Religious and Civil Architecture and Archaeological heritage, as well as new categories such as Contemporary and Military architecture as well as Urban Spaces. BRAGA, LA RELIGIEUSE In the Bom Jesus Garden, you will find one of the most beautiful and spiritually uplifting places in the world. When crossing it, you’ll enter a spiritual environment beginning your visit with a staircase surrounded by century-old trees that will lead to chapels which portray the passion of Christ. It cannot be missed by both devotes and tourists. On the medium landing you will find the first belvedere from where you can see the entire city of Braga and the surrounding landscape. From there on, the staircases are set in surrounding woodlands and the space opens up. At the top of the staircase is the grand church of Bom Jesus welcoming strolling tourists

20. Santuário do Bom Jesus do Monte This spiritual sanctuary is considered one of the most beautiful in Portugal. Surrounded by magnificent gardens, the neoclassical church was designed by Carlos Amarante in the late 18th century. The famous baroque stairway zigzags up to the church, featuring enchanting fountains and statues along the way. Visitors can also take the funicular (cable car) or drive to the top to enjoy the peaceful ambience and outstanding views. The church is surrounded by lovely gardens, perfect for reflection and rest after the challenging climb. Brightly colored flowers contrast the dark granite and white plaster of the church, and add a lively element to the visit . Bom Jesus do Monte is far from your typical church or cathedral. It is actually classified as a sanctuary, and is enormous– it’s also the most photographed church in Portugal. It is known for its intricate zig zag Baroque style staircase (about 600 stairs in total) that lead up 381 feet to the main basilica. A popular place for a pilgrimage, penitents normally climb the stairs on their knees while reflecting on the Passion of Christ that is depicted by various statues along the way. We didn’t see anyone repenting to that degree while visiting, but even climbing 600 stairs by foot is very quite. The present Sanctuary started being built in 1722, under the patronage of the Archbishop of Braga Under his direction the first stairway row, with chapels dedicated to the Via Crucis , were completed. Each chapel is decorated with terra cotta sculptures depicting the Passion of Christ. He also sponsored the next segment of stairways, which has a zigzag shape and is dedicated to the Five Senses . Each sense (Sight, Smell, Hearing, Touch, Taste) is represented by a different fountain . At the end of this stairway, a Baroque church was built around 1725 . In the 19th century, the area around the church and stairway was expropriated and turned into a park. In 1882, to facilitate the access to the Sanctuary, the water balance Bom Jesus Funicular was built linking the city of Braga to the hill.

21. BOM JESUS DO MONTE

22. The European Youth Capital (CEJ) is an annual title awarded by the European Youth Forum to a European city. Winning the 2012 title of European Youth Capital will be an opportunity to promote, internally and externally, historical and cultural developments, and the attractiveness of the city, at various levels, taking advantage of this visibility to mobilize resources and efforts to improve the support structure for young people and create opportunities for the future, promoting improvements in the quality of life.“ If you have not made any plans for next year then let me tell you that Braga was appointed the European Youth Capital of 2012. The city and its inhabitants pride themselves with such an honor and promise to charm everyone with unique cultural and educational programs, dedicated first of all to young people. According to the organizers, more than 13 thousand hours of activities, including more than 100 workshops and 90 seminars will be part of next year’s program. If you are visiting this region of Portugal you will have another great surprise: Guimarães (located a few miles from Braga) will be European Capital of Culture in 2012. The two cities will have the chance to collaborate closely and bring forward all it is best in the Portuguese traditional and modern culture. Thus, the time could not be better for you to make the necessary preparations for a holiday to Portugal.

23. The tourist office is the art deco looking building on the corner of Praca da Liberdad and Avenida da Liberdade open Mon-Fri 9 am-7 pm, Sat 9 am-12.30 pm and 2-5.30 pm and in August 9 am-12.30 pm and 2-5.30 pm from which you can get a helpful town map. Avenida da Liberdade, 1 - 4700-251 Braga. Tel: 351 253 262 550. Fax: 351 253 613 387. Email: rtvm@mail.telepac.pt. Braga is a good shopping centre with Bragashopping, just to the north of Praca da Republica, being the main retail centre. There are also lots of interesting independent shops, restaurants with a wide range of styles of cuisine (including vegetarian restaurants) and cafes around the cobbled streets of the old town particularly along the streets behind the Torre de Menagem. Bragashopping also has a cinema within it with a good range of films including international films.

25. Sé Cathedral In the historic centre of Braga stands the oldest cathedral in Portugal, the Sé, containing a wealth of sacred art treasures. Building began in 1070 and was influenced by a combination of Gothic, Renaissance and baroque styles. Highlights include the ornate Manueline towers and roof, as well as the carved altarpiece and twin baroque organs. The tombs of Dom Henrique and Dona Teresa, parents of the first King of Portugal are located in the Capela dos Reis (Kings’ chapel). Jardim de Santa Bárbara The Santa Bárbara Garden is one of the most beautiful in Portugal. Dating back to the 17th century, this elegantly landscaped square is located near the former Archbishop’s Palace and features colourful flowers and lush plants

26. Piazza della Repubblica: La Arcada - XVI sec. A good place to start exploring the centre of Braga is the Praca da Republica in the centre of the old town. The square itself is a modern, light, open square with adjoining gardens with modern sculptures that is a relaxing place to watch passers by from the benches dotted around or from one of the cafes that face onto the square with outdoor seating. The square is dominated by the fabulous fountain that has a changing display but don't become too entranced and forget the rest of the city! At night it all comes alive with coloured uplighting complemented by the kitsch neon lighting of the nearby cafes.

27. WHERE TO STAY Going on vacation to Portugal? Information on finding the right place to stay: self-catering, bed and breakfast, hotel or youth hostel, find out more... Portugal welcomes over 12 million tourists each year, and the tourist industry is developing rapidly. In some areas of Portugal, for example, the Algarve and Lisbon, the tourism industry is already very well developed. There are many types of holiday accommodation available but Pousadas de Portugal are very beautiful hotels often in superb locations, offering the visitor a sense of history, culture, tradition mixed together with regional hospitality and cuisine. The group was formed to restore the national architectural heritage owned by the government to guarantee its preservation and to increase the supply of first class accommodation. The Pousadas represent the best that Portugal has to offer. Their name means elegant and luxurious accommodation with attention to the smallest details, exceptional service and a warm welcome from the management.

28. Séjour princier The new Braga - São Vicente Pousada is the result of the restoration of a late nineteenth-century palace. In an appropriate setting for a Charm Pousada, this is the ideal base from which to discover the magnificent city of Braga and the fabulous Minho region at your leisure. If you're travelling on business you'll feel at home when you return to the Pousada de São Vicente at the end of your day's work. This Pousada is equipped to host events. Come and discover the latest Pousada de Portugal, Pousada de Braga - São Vicente. Welcome, once again, to Pousadas de JUVENTUDE in Portugal! Located in the center area, it offers a panoramic view over the river Douro. It has 148 beds, coffee shop/bar, breakfast service, laundry, internet, living room and public telephone. There is no age limit for staying in a Youth Hostel. The Youth Hostel membership card gives you access to all the Youth Hostels in the National Network of Youth Tourism in Portugal and around the World. The card is valid for one year and you have to present it on arrival. Information on meals is given when you make the reservation. Pousada de JUVENTUDE inBRAGA The Youth Hostel is near the main landmarks.

29. THE BEAUTY OF SIMPLICITY During our trip we discovered that: Wandering Portugal is a veritable pleasure for its friendly people, for the climate often very beautiful, for its beautiful cities, for its scenery, its history, its culture and its heritage. In short, everything is there to spend a nice holiday Let us go and explore the region of Minho, Braga,Guimarens, Viana do castelo Let us plan an unforgettable experience in these incredibly beautiful country PORTUGAL!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! feel YOURS passions iN portugal

30. 2011-1- IT2-COM06-25211-1 Teachers working session: Mrs Marjorie Boulic Mrs Floriana Vizziello Mrs Leonilde Serinelli Mrs Anna Maria Parisi Students participating at the session inFelgueiras : D’Ercole Annalisa De Lucia Chiara Ferraiuolo Simone Leccese Paolo Panico Anna Silvia COORDINATION: Mrs Franca Miserocchi