The History of Portugal: A Look at the Ancient Kingdoms and Empires



The history of Portugal is a long and fascinating one, beginning with the ancient kingdoms and empires that have shaped the nation into what it is today. Portugal has a rich and varied past, with influences from both Europe and the Mediterranean. From the Celts to the Romans, the Visigoths, and the Moors, Portugal has seen many different rulers throughout its history.

The Celts were the first inhabitants of the Iberian peninsula, and their influence is still seen today in the language, culture, and cuisine of Portugal. The Celts were a warlike people who were known for their skill in battle and their fierce independence. They established a number of small kingdoms throughout the peninsula, and their influence can still be seen in the architecture and art of Portugal today.

The Romans arrived in the area in the 2nd century BC, and they quickly established their own kingdom. They brought with them their own language, culture, and religion, and they were able to spread their influence throughout the peninsula. The Roman Empire was the most powerful and influential in the region during this time, and its influence can still be seen in the language, culture, and architecture of Portugal today.

The Visigoths, a Germanic tribe, arrived in the 5th century AD and quickly established their own kingdom. They were a powerful force in the region, and their influence can still be seen in the language, culture, and architecture of Portugal today.

In the 8th century, the Moors invaded the Iberian peninsula and established their own kingdom. The Moors were a Muslim people who brought with them their own language, culture, and religion. Their influence can still be seen in the language, culture, and architecture of Portugal today.

The Reconquista, a period of several hundred years in which the Christians of the Iberian peninsula fought to reclaim their land from the Moors, began in the 13th century. The Reconquista was a long and difficult struggle, but in the end, the Christians were able to reclaim their land and establish the kingdom of Portugal.

The kingdom of Portugal flourished during the 15th and 16th centuries, and it was during this time that Portugal became a major maritime power. Portugal was responsible for many of the great discoveries of the time, and its influence can still be seen in the language, culture, and architecture of Portugal today.

Portugal has a long and fascinating history, and its influence can still be seen in the language, culture, and architecture of the country today. From the Celts to the Romans, the Visigoths, and the Moors, Portugal has seen many different rulers throughout its history, and each one has left its mark on the nation.