Portugal lies along the Atlantic coast of the Iberian Peninsula in south Western Europe. It shares a border with Spain in the east and north, while the Atlantic dominates the coastline in the west and south. Occupying about 16 percent of the Iberian Peninsula, Portugal (including Madeira and Azores) has a population of over 10 million people.
Despite its relatively small size, the country boasts a great diversity of geographical features, from golden plains to mountainous zones. Moreover, its location allows quick access not only to several European countries, but also to the east coast of the American and African continents.
Portuguese is spoken by more than 200 million people in several continents, including Europe, Africa and America. This diversity has contributed to the deepening of historical and cultural ties between Portugal and the world.
The state form is a pluralistic democracy. Under the Constitution, the organs of sovereignty are the President, the Parliament, the Government and the Courts.
As a member of the European Union and NATO, Portugal plays a greater role in both European and world affairs than its size would suggest.
Portugal is part of the group of EU countries, where the Euro is the official currency and common to all.
Total area: 92,090 sq. km (including Madeira and Azores archipelagos)
Land: 91,470 sq. km
Water: 620 sq. km
Agricultural Land: 17% arable land; 8% permanent crops; 75% other
Weather: Maritime temperate; cold and rainy on the north coast, warm and dry on the south coast
Terrain: Mountainous north of the Tagus (Tejo) river, rolling plains in the south