language and culture

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Portuguese Culture: A Beginner’s Guide

November 19th, 2010

Portugal takes pride in being an independent kingdom since the early twelfth century. As one of the oldest European nations Portugal has been home to Celts, Visigoths, Arabs and Romans. Historians suggest that Portuguese culture is a blend of numerous civilizations, varied practices, and beliefs as a result of these foreign influences. Variety and uniqueness of Portuguese culture may be experienced by being a part of its annual festivals also known as Festas. They are a complete celebration and reflection of the rich Portuguese culture. Most festivals reflect the amalgamation of diverse cultures along with ancient traditional rituals.

The Portuguese have a deep sense of religion and respect for their age-old traditions. Most customary practices are passed on from one generation to another within the family or community. Most traditional practices have survived the test of time, and celebrations undertaken bear a close resemblance to customs followed in the past. In fact, historians have observed that a number of such festivals have survived diverse regimes and cultures. Apart from upholding traditional practices, modern festivals are also celebrated with equal zest and fervor. Such festivals exemplify modern culture.

The roots of Portuguese culture are tied to its primitive past. This includes invasions by various foreign leaders as well as practices adapted from foreign visits. Explorers from several countries have visited Portugal during their voyages. This was possible because of Portugal?s expansive Atlantic coast. Navigators and captains fought pirates and embarked on new trade and sea routes. Such journeys were often fatal, but successful ventures helped bring back foreign tradition, culture, and education.

Culture is reflected in numerous religious festivals, pilgrimages, traditional dances, shaman practices, cuisine, and wine. Portuguese culture is also showcased in numerous religious processions, music, dance, art, and literature. The Portuguese government has taken great measures to preserve its archaeological remains. The government has ensured adequate upkeep of its prehistoric cave paintings, Roman townships, temples, and towns.

By: Thomas Morva

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Portugal provides detailed information on Portugal, Map of Portugal, History Of Portugal, Real Estate In Portugal and more. Portugal is affiliated with Peru Tours [http://www.z-Peru.com].

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Tags: Customary Practices Traditional Rituals Twelfth Century

Holland Culture

November 11th, 2010

Holland’s culture is varied and lively. Dutch people themselves take immense delight in their cultural heritage. Arts of every form flourish in Holland. When it comes to culture, the country is possibly most renowned for its painters who were amongst the greatest in the world. Holland’s cultural life attained an international reputation during the 17th century, which is often referred to as the country’s Golden Age. Well-known figures of the Golden Age include the great 17th-century Dutch artists Rembrandt Harmensz van Rijn, Johannes Vermeer, and Jan Steen. The 19th and 20th centuries witnessed the emergence of artists such as Vincent van Gogh and Pieter Cornelis Mondrian.

Holland has exceptional museums and a remarkable variety of classical and innovative music and theatre. With almost 1,000 museums, the Netherlands has the highest museum density in the world. Some of the most famous are the Rijksmuseum and the Van Gogh Museum in Amsterdam, the Museum Boijmans Van Beuningen in Rotterdam and the Mauritshuis in The Hague. The Het Loo palace in Apeldoorn is of significance to those interested in architecture, gardening and history.

In Holland, major international arts festivals are held every year. The Holland Festival, held in Amsterdam in June every year, is an internationally distinguished music festival. Special events such as the Rembrandt Exhibition and an exhibition on the Golden Age draw many tourists and enhance the country’s status as a centre of culture. Holland culture is also famed for other reasons. It has produced many great philosophers, astronomers, writers and mathematicians.

Dutch architecture is also a distinguished feature and has always been popular in other parts of the world. Holland has six monuments on the World Heritage List. Cheese is another important product that has become a hallmark of Dutch culture. Many high-quality varieties of cheese are both made and enjoyed in Holland. Several orchestras are based in towns and cities throughout the country. The natives are keen on sport and fitness, music, social clubs and organized events. Above all, Holland is considered to be one of the most liberal countries in the world.

By: Elizabeth Morgan

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Holland provides detailed information on Travel Holland, Holland, Zuid Holland, Noord Holland and more. Holland is affiliated with Greece Flights [http://www.z-Greece.com].

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Tags: 19th And 20th Centuries Great Philosophers Rembrandt Harmensz Van Rijn

Bangkok Culture

November 2nd, 2010

Bangkok’s culture dates back to many centuries that it is said that archeological excavations in the area north of Nakorn Ratchasima indicate that there were people living here over 4000 years ago. Monarchy played a major role in the medieval times. But now Thailand has a rich bout of democracy with its own constitution.

The Bangkokians are a bunch of warm and friendly people, usually too polite to show offense. Yet, as with any nation, there are borders of behavior that should and should not be crossed. They take great pride in their monarchy. Visitors are well-advised to respect the reverence in which devoted Bangkokians hold their royal family. The Buddhist religion is considered sacred by Bangkokians. Monks, temples, and Buddha images are everywhere and most of the people treat them with great respect. It is expected that appropriate clothing be worn in temples, and shoes removed when entering certain areas in the temples.

For Bangkokians, the maintenance of surface calm and harmony is crucial. Loss of temper, arguing, or direct criticism are best avoided among them, because they feel it serves little purpose in any case. The famous wai is a used as a gesture for both greeting and respect. Wai requires the person to use both of his hands as if praying in front of his face. In general, it is considered to be a mark of respect to try to keep the head at a lower level than that of a senior or older person when talking to or passing them. On entering a private chamber or house, it is customary to remove your shoes. The polite form of address when talking to or about people of similar or older age are to use the title “Khun” and the person’s first name.

Many Bangkokians will be too polite to comment on behaviour that is disrespectful of a fellow Bangkokian, but you should be aware that it is still offensive. Looks and appearances are important to Bangkokians. When meeting them, dressing smartly, or at least appropriately, reflects the degree of respect you hold for them.

By: Ken Marlborough

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Bangkok [http://www.Bangkok-Web.com] provides detailed information on Bangkok Hotels, Bangkok, Bangkok Airfare, Bangkok Nightlife and more. Bangkok is affiliated with Bali Culture.