The history of Portugal is long and colourful, including Roman and Moorish invasions and Portuguese explorers who brought back many influences to the country. This book introduces the reader to the local crafts and festivals of Portugal - its trade, industry and finance, the importance of the family in Portugal, the geography and beauty of the land, rivers running from the hills in the east to the sea in the west, the character of the people, attitudes, education, culture, architecture, and the paintings, poets and novelists of the country.