FADO :

When you think of Portugal one of the first things to come to mind is Fado.

Having been represented for many years in foreign countries by Amalia, Fado is now the world-wide symbol of Portugal.

Considered the expression of the Portuguese soul, Fado is sung in bars, restaurants. throughout the country.

Fado was supposedly born from the songs of the Moors after the Christian take-over. Though it goes back many centuries the basis as not changed and the melancholy and sadness are still very present.

Others say that it stems from the Brazilian slave music under the form of Lundumn arriving in Portugal with the sailors returning from long trips at sea. One of Amalia's songs "the Black Boat" speaks of Senzala, a place where slaves were kept, proof that the songs where not only linked to the sea but also to the land where the slaves lived.

Another possibility would be that Fado was created by the Middle Age minstrels and jesters. Their love songs for women are very similar to the Fado we know today.

Whatever the source, Fado is Portugal's pride and joy, the national musical treasure that runs in their blood. Even if you don't speak the language, it's difficult not to be moved by the melody, voices and performances expressing the most beautiful poems.