As climate change continues to intensify weather patterns globally, cities in southern Europe are facing unprecedented challenges. The recent flood in Valencia, Spain, on October 29, 2024, serves as a grim reminder of the increasing risk. In a terrifying eight-hour period, a year’s worth of rain fell on Valencia, causing severe destruction and resulting in a death toll that has climbed to 95 people. This catastrophic event has reignited questions about Lisbon‘s readiness to face a similarly devastating flood. Portugal’s capital has experienced its share of severe flooding events over the years, and the city is taking extensive measures to reduce its vulnerability. But is Lisbon truly prepared? The short answer is no – like many cities that would be faced with the amount of torrential downfall that Valencia just received. Let’s take a look at the history of recent floods in Lisbon and what the city is doing to prepare for the worst. 

Recent Floods in Lisbon

Lisbon is no stranger to intense rainfall and flooding. On December 7, 2022, the city experienced extreme flooding after receiving over 80 mm of rain in just 24 hours. The resulting deluge led to significant damage across the city, tragically claiming the life of a person trapped in a flooded basement home in Algés, in the municipality of Oeiras. A few days later, on December 12 and 13, another wave of heavy rain struck Lisbon and the nearby district of Setúbal. During this event, the Tapada da Ajuda weather station recorded an additional 65.6 mm of rain within three hours, while Almada in Setúbal measured 59.7 mm in a five-hour period. These floods resulted in widespread destruction, disrupting transportation and leading to countless emergency rescues.

One of the deadliest flooding events in Lisbon occurred on November 25-26, 1967. Known as the “great floods,” this disaster struck the Lisbon metropolitan area, impacting 14 municipalities and claiming between 500 and 700 lives, making it the deadliest flood in Portugal’s history. The rain was heaviest in the region between Estoril and Alenquer, with over 120 mm falling in just five hours, causing the Tagus River and its tributaries to rise by 3 to 4 meters. The floodwaters inundated homes up to their first floors, dragging debris, stones, and mud, while high tide further exacerbated the devastation. Many of those affected were recent rural migrants living in flood-prone areas, whose homes were swept away in the sudden deluge. With no flood alert system in place, the flood caught most people unaware, making it Portugal’s deadliest national disaster since the 1755 earthquake.

Current Projects to Combat Flooding in Lisbon

In response to increasingly frequent and severe flooding, Lisbon has implemented an ambitious drainage plan to mitigate future flood risks. The origins of the project date back to 2002, when the first calls for a comprehensive drainage system arose. In 2008, the planning was completed, and it took another seven years before Lisbon formally presented its €250 million drainage master plan. This plan includes constructing two massive collecting tunnels designed to divert excess rainwater away from the city’s streets and directly into the Tagus River.

The first and largest tunnel, extending 4.6 kilometers from Campolide to Santa Apolónia, collects rainwater from various key locations, including Avenida da Liberdade and Avenida Almirante Reis, alleviating pressure from overburdened drainage systems. The second tunnel, which spans 1.6 kilometers between Chelas and Beato, aims to provide additional flood protection. Both tunnels, with diameters of 5.5 meters, operate independently of Lisbon’s sewage system in order to ensure that rainwater flows uninterrupted into the river.

The current stage of construction focuses on the critical areas of Santa Apolónia and Avenida da Liberdade, with anticipated completion dates ranging from early 2025 to late 2026, although it is always hard to say when projects of this size will be completed. The tunnel systems are designed to create a vortex effect, redirecting water to prevent flooding in Lisbon’s low-lying Baixa district. Although the construction has caused some temporary disruption in the city, engineers and planners are optimistic that these tunnels will significantly reduce flood risks once completed.

The drainage plan also includes additional protective measures, such as retention basins in Ameixoeira and Ajuda and a rainwater infiltration system in Parque Eduardo VII. Smaller drainage tunnels, like the 350-meter tunnel near Oriente Station, offer further flood protection. These structures ensure a more distributed approach to flood management across Lisbon, enhancing resilience against future heavy rainfall events.

Lisbon Unveils 86 Emergency Meeting Points for Disaster Preparedness

In tandem with physical infrastructure improvements and the recent earthquake felt in Lisbon on August 26, 2024, Lisbon has bolstered its disaster preparedness strategy by designating 86 emergency meeting points throughout the city. These meeting points serve as safe havens for over 600,000 residents during crises, including floods, earthquakes, tsunamis, and fires. The selection process for these sites took into account various risk factors, including soil composition, seismic susceptibility, and proximity to essential emergency infrastructure.

These sites, developed in collaboration with local parish councils and Lisbon’s Municipal Civil Protection Service, offer citizens a safe location to gather with emergency kits until help arrives. Distinct signage will soon mark each meeting point for easy identification, ensuring that residents can quickly locate safe zones during a disaster.

To further enhance public preparedness, Lisbon has also launched the LxReSist platform, an online tool and mobile application designed to increase the city’s seismic resilience. LxReSist provides residents with building-specific information on seismic vulnerabilities and encourages structural reinforcements to improve building safety. With many tourists visiting Lisbon each year, the platform will soon be available in multiple languages to ensure accessibility for all. The platform empowers Lisbon’s residents and visitors with practical information to help them make informed safety decisions in the face of natural disasters.

Ongoing Infrastructure Improvements

Lisbon’s €150 million drainage project is currently halfway completed and promises substantial improvements to the city’s flood resilience. Mayor Carlos Moedas emphasized the importance of these drainage works, particularly in light of the devastating December 2022 floods. Preliminary evaluations have revealed that 5% to 10% of Lisbon’s municipal buildings may require structural reinforcements to withstand earthquakes, another natural hazard that the city is preparing for as part of its broader disaster readiness strategy.

Beyond flood management, Lisbon has installed two tsunami warning sirens and plans to add eight more over the coming years. These systems form part of the city’s comprehensive emergency response strategy, which also includes an SMS alert service that notifies residents of emergencies and provides safety recommendations.

What You Can Do to Prepare for a Major Flood in Portugal?

While Lisbon’s ongoing drainage improvements and emergency infrastructure enhance its flood resilience, residents can also take individual steps to prepare for extreme weather events. The following recommendations provide practical ways to stay safe:

1. Prepare an Emergency Kit – Keep essential items such as water, non-perishable food, a flashlight, a first-aid kit, and important documents in a waterproof bag.

2. Stay Informed – Register for Lisbon’s SMS alert service by sending a message with the text “AVISOSLX” to 927 944 000. Staying informed can help you act quickly in an emergency.

3. Know Your Emergency Meeting Point – Familiarize yourself with the nearest emergency meeting point designated by the city and ensure that all family members know the location.

4. Elevate and Protect Valuables – If you live in a basement or a low-lying area, consider elevating furniture and valuable items to prevent water damage in case of flooding.

5. Move Your Car to Higher Ground – Make sure that your car is not parked in a low-lying area prone to flooding when torrential downpours occur. One area in Alcântara, for example, across from Alcântara Terra train station, floods each time there is significant rainfall and should always be avoided during bad weather events. We only recommend doing this if it can be done days before a major weather event or perhaps as a regular practice. Do not attempt this during the middle of heavy rainfall.

5. Review Insurance Policies – Check your insurance coverage for flood damage and consider purchasing additional coverage if you live in a high-risk area.

In Portugal, home insurance is mandatory for homeowners with a mortgage, although it is not required for those living in rented properties. Landlords, however, are generally responsible for obtaining at least a minimal insurance level on rental properties, covering the structure itself, and they may factor this expense into rental pricing. Homeowners and landlords alike often consider additional coverage options to protect against the wide range of risks that properties in flood-prone areas might face.

There are two main types of building insurance available in Portugal: fire insurance and multi-risk insurance. Fire insurance, known as seguro de incendio, is the minimum requirement for property owners and protects against fire damage, with most policies also extending to cover natural disasters like floods, storms, and lightning strikes. For more comprehensive coverage, property owners can opt for multi-risk insurance, or seguro multirriscos, which includes additional protections, such as public liability coverage. Many policies also offer contents insurance as an add-on, safeguarding personal belongings within the property. The cost of home insurance varies based on factors like property value, the level of coverage chosen, and the specific risks associated with the location.

6. Create a Family Emergency Plan – Designate a safe spot within your home, plan an evacuation route, and ensure that all family members know the procedures for evacuating during a flood.

Final Thoughts

As demonstrated by the tragic flood in Valencia, extreme weather events can lead to catastrophic loss of life and property in a matter of hours. Lisbon has recognized the urgency of preparing for such disasters and invested in advanced drainage infrastructure and establishing comprehensive emergency plans. The city’s dedication to enhancing its flood resilience is evident in its ambitious drainage plan, newly established emergency meeting points, and digital preparedness platforms like LxReSist.

Despite these advances, the unpredictability of climate change and the increasing frequency of extreme weather events mean that no city can ever be fully immune to natural disasters. While Lisbon is making commendable progress in its preparations, continued vigilance, public education, and infrastructure development remain essential to ensure the safety of its residents. In a world where monster floods are becoming more common, cities like Lisbon must continue adapting to protect their communities.

1. IMF Praises Portugal, But Productivity and Investment Are Threats

The IMF praised Portugal’s impressive performance in recent years, noting economic trajectory with growth double that of the euro area. However, challenges such as low productivity and insufficient public investment pose threats. Dauphin emphasized the importance of addressing aging population and geopolitical tensions affecting inflation.

Pandemic recovery has led to increased savings and a desire to travel, contributing to a resilient labor market. Portugal’s increased attractiveness in tourism is essential for accelerating growth and improving living standards. Despite improvements in education, broader measures are crucial for productivity enhancement and reducing bureaucracy.

Addressing low productivity and public investment is key for continued economic growth. Portugal’s fiscal responsibility has resulted in a remarkable reduction of public debt, showcasing a strong consensus among policymakers on maintaining economic stability. The IMF forecasts growth around 2% this year, reflecting optimism despite existing challenges. Tourism remains a vital sector, underpinning the recovery and contributing to Portugal’s economic resilience.

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2. The Challenge for Portugal Is to Position Other Sectors Like Tourism

Portugal’s tourism sector is projected to close 2024 with “record-breaking revenues” of €27 billion, originally set as a target for 2027. At the APAVT Congress, Economy Minister Pedro Reis praised “the strength, conditions, and professionals” in tourism, calling it a “global leader” and emphasizing that the challenge is “to place other sectors where tourism is…in the first line.”

While tourism is “one of the main drivers” of Portugal’s economy, some argue it “negatively impacts residents” in certain cities through congestion and higher housing prices. Reis countered that tourism brings “quality, sophistication, and professionalism” to Portugal, adding that it serves as crucial “leverage” for industries like “real estate, agriculture, and hospitality,” extending benefits across the economy.

To prevent “oversaturation” in urban centers, the goal is a balanced territorial distribution and continued investment in “quality upgrades” across offerings. Portugal’s economic ambition, according to Reis, must focus on “execution, implementation, and shifting from diagnosis to action in reindustrialization and agricultural growth,” capturing global positioning as a “first-line” destination.

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3. Portugal Needs to Scale Its Businesses to Grow

The II Portuguese Business Congress, hosted by AEP (Portuguese Business Association) at Exponor in Matosinhos, focused on urging strategies to scale Portuguese businesses as a means to drive national growth. Key themes for economic development include ESG, artificial intelligence, and people-focused strategies, with speakers from top organizations like OCDE, The Navigator Company, Bial, and Sonae MC. José Manuel Fernandes, president of AEP’s General Council, emphasizes that Portugal’s tax structure, specifically the 31.5% IRC rate, acts as a “clear disincentive” for business expansion, while immigration policy should align with economic needs to bolster the workforce.

Fernandes highlights scaling as essential for “overcoming low productivity” and reaching EU standards, arguing that obstacles like excessive regulation and bureaucracy hinder Portugal’s economic competitiveness. Emphasizing the potential for growth through a favorable investment climate, he advocates reducing corporate tax and implementing support for knowledge development, talent retention, and demographic challenges. Expanding the economy in rural areas through foreign investment would “promote population stability” and foster local supplier networks, particularly in industrial sectors.

The AEP’s initiatives cover training, internationalization, technical information, and competitive growth, aiding over 4,000 companies in 2023 with extensive events, partnerships, and missions to international markets. AEP’s long history—175 years—mirrors Portugal’s industrial evolution, having pioneered training with the country’s first Escola Industrial, organized national and international expos, and created enduring support structures for companies. This legacy underscores AEP’s role as a vital advocate for Portugal’s business community and economic development.

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4. Portuguese Government to Launch €50 Million Sustainable Tourism Support Line

The Portuguese government will activate a new €50 million support line called Turismo+Sustentável, aimed at funding sustainable tourism projects, with management by the Banco Português de Fomento (BPF), as announced by the Minister of Economy today.

“Next week, we will launch this support line for sustainable projects, a €50 million fund designed in collaboration with Banco de Fomento, to be distributed through commercial banks,” said Pedro Reis at the 49th Congress of the Portuguese Association of Travel and Tourism Agencies (APAVT), held in Huelva, Spain.

According to Turismo de Portugal, this fund, managed by BPF, provides guaranteed credit to support investments in environmental sustainability, including energy management, water management, waste management, and biodiversity. The APAVT congress, concluding today, gathered 750 tourism industry professionals.

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5. Tumultuous Events Threaten Portugal’s Image

Riots in the Lisbon region threaten Portugal’s image as a safe country, impacting foreign investor confidence. The unrest, ignited by the tragic death of Cape Verdean citizen Odair Moniz, led to significant violence, including “numerous” incidents of burning vehicles, stoning police cars, and injuries. Foreign investors expressed surprise and concern in WhatsApp groups, highlighting the importance of Portugal’s safety perception. This situation could affect the country’s ranking in the Global Peace Index, where Portugal is currently the seventh safest country in the world, reflecting a decline from previous years.

The government announced measures to monitor inappropriate behaviors, indicating the severity of the unrest. “There’s a certain astonishment among people,” noted investor Stephan de Moraes. Prompt resolution of the turmoil is crucial to avoid reputational damage. Over the last decade, the stock of foreign direct investment in Portugal has risen significantly, attributed to the perception of safety and the regime of golden visas. However, ongoing disturbances can jeopardize this positive image, especially as international media coverage amplifies concerns about public order.

The underlying issues of economic inequality are crucial. “The lack of opportunities leads to protests of discontent,” suggests de Moraes. Investors are increasingly attentive to security matters, particularly given the current tensions. Quick and decisive government action is needed to restore investor confidence and prevent further deterioration of Portugal’s international standing as a safe haven.

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6. Group of Citizens Files Criminal Complaint Against André Ventura and Pedro Pinto for Statements Related to the Death of Odair Moniz

A group of citizens, including former Minister Francisca Van Dunem, has filed a criminal complaint against André Ventura and Pedro Pinto for statements deemed “incitement to crime” and “glorification of criminal acts.” Pinto, the parliamentary leader of Chega, remarked that “if security forces shot more to kill, the country would be more orderly,” while Ventura defended the police officer involved in the shooting of Odair Moniz, asserting, “we should thank this police officer.” The complaint has gained support from notable figures like João Maria Jonet and Isabel Moreira, with Van Dunem emphasizing that “no democrat can ignore these statements,” urging for a collective response against the climate of hatred and violence.

The proposal for the complaint argues that Pinto’s statements encourage the improper use of weapons by security forces, representing “glorification of a crime.” The signatories contend that both Ventura and Pinto incited “disorder and disobedience” among security agents, thereby committing “incitement to collective disobedience.” Additionally, statements from Ricardo Reis, who thanked the police officer on social media, were cited as constituting a crime of criminal association. The complaint reflects a growing concern over statements that undermine respect for the law and promote violence in the wake of recent events.

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7. From Jewelry to Modern Painting, Lisbon’s Autumn Fair Is Coming

Jewelry pieces, silver, contemporary and modern paintings, sculptures, sacred art, earthenware, furniture, and porcelain. This is the showcase of antiques and art that you will find at the fifth edition of the Autumn Fair. Held at the National Society of Fine Arts, the event organized by the APA – Portuguese Association of Antiquarians returns from November 13 to 17. The event dedicated to contemporary art and antiques brings together a total of 17 Portuguese antiquarians and gallery owners, who present “unique and carefully selected pieces for a fair that has become part of Lisbon’s cultural agenda,” as stated by the organization in a press release.

Internationally renowned for their paintings, the fair will highlight works by Sonia Delaunay, Paula Rego, Vieira da Silva, and Manuel Cargaleiro. Pedro Cabrita Reis and Fernando Daza will represent the contemporary art segment, with additional emphasis on pieces by Júlio Resende, João Vieira, and Rogério Ribeiro. Luiz Ferreira, Manuel Alcino, and others will bring pieces in Portuguese silver. Alongside all the artworks and antiques present at the fair, the APA’s leadership emphasizes that the goal is to “promote and deepen the opening to various artistic expressions, enabling a dialogue between the ancient and the contemporary.”

Where? Rua Barata Salgueiro, nº36 . When? November 13-17 / Wed-Sun / 15:00-21:00. How much? 12€ (the double ticket costs 20€).

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8. Portugal Plans to Purchase 36 Pieces of Artillery Military Equipment by 2034

Portugal plans to acquire 36 modern artillery systems by 2034, aiming to replace outdated equipment in the Armed Forces. The Minister of National Defense, Nuno Melo, indicated that the investment is part of the Military Programming Law (LPM), which allocates 60 million euros by 2026. This initiative aligns with the goal of achieving 2% of GDP for Defense by 2029, covering investments across all branches of the military.

The recent signing of a protocol with France represents a significant step, aiming for a unified artillery system to replace the current three different systems, which present logistical and operational challenges. General Eduardo Mendes Ferrão emphasized that these new systems will be digitized, facilitating easier logistics and greater interoperability with allies. The modernization process will also reduce the number of operators needed, significantly decreasing personnel requirements for artillery operations.

Melo highlighted the government’s commitment to prioritizing defense, noting recent increases in salaries and allowances for military personnel. With a focus on equipment modernization, this initiative reflects a broader strategy to enhance military capabilities while maintaining attention to recovery and support for personnel. The government aims to create a streamlined, modern, and effective military framework that aligns with international standards.

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9. There Are More 3,344 Teachers in Schools, but There Are Still 23,000 Students Without Classes

The plan “More Classes, More Success” accounts for the return of 557 teachers who left the profession. Despite the increase in teachers, “around 23,000 children and youth” still face missing teachers from at least one subject. The Minister of Education, Fernando Alexandre, emphasized: “We cannot live with thousands of students without classes.”

Alexandre presented figures from the plan’s implementation, noting that 54,000 students have experienced gaps in at least one subject. Over 7,000 students now have classes, thanks to teachers who agreed to extend their hours. This plan includes 17 measures aimed at reducing the number of students without teachers, yet approximately 23,000 remain without adequate instruction. The current school year has been challenging, with ongoing efforts to address issues in various disciplines and a commitment to improve teacher recruitment.

In the sectoral policy debate, Alexandre criticized “zigzagging opinions” and insisted that education policies must be guided by data and studies. He noted that “a review and update of all subjects” is in progress, expected to take effect in the next school year. He reiterated that schools need focus, not disruption, highlighting that there is room for improvements in the educational system. The minister also acknowledged the importance of prioritizing educational resources and fostering a more effective learning environment for all students.

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10. Portuguese National Stock Exchange Prepares to Say Goodbye to Greenvolt

The American fund KKR (Kohlberg Kravis Roberts) has become the owner of 97.6% of the Portuguese company Greenvolt after a Public Offering for Acquisition (OPA) allowed GVK Omega, a vehicle created by the Americans for this operation, to acquire a stake in the capital that it did not previously hold. Now, the Portuguese company led by João Manso Neto is preparing to bid farewell to the national stock market.

The results of the operation were announced this Friday after the market closed by Euronext, the company that manages the national stock exchange. Greenvolt ended the day down 1.32%, with shares priced at €8.2. GVK Omega paid an additional €19.7 million for 12.08% of Greenvolt’s share capital, along with the purchase of another 18.93% for €30.9 million, which included settling a swap contract made with Mediobanca, the operation’s intermediary. Adding these transfers to the shares already held (66.63% of the capital), KKR now owns 159.4 million shares of Greenvolt, equivalent to 97.6% of the capital.

This operation values each share at €8.310, raising the market capitalization of the Portuguese company to €1.35 billion. Once KKR surpasses the 90% threshold, they will initiate the mandatory OPA mechanism to delist the company from the stock exchange. Yesterday marked the last day of the offer period, which began in December of last year with the preliminary announcement of a voluntary offer. The settlement of the OPA will occur on October 29. Note that KKR is a global investment firm that provides alternative asset management as well as capital markets and insurance solutions.

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1. Tax Regime May Hinder Foreign Interest in Portugal

Investors and promoters fear that foreign millionaires will choose other destinations. The Non-Habitual Resident (NHR) regime and the golden visa program need revisiting to attract foreign direct investment, according to Hugo Santos Ferreira, president of APPII (Portuguese Association of Real Estate Promoters and Investors). He emphasizes that Portugal is losing its capacity to attract investors due to the decreasing attractiveness of these regimes. Brazilian and American citizens do continue to show interest in living in Portugal, particularly in the NHR regime and its fiscal benefits.

At CIMI 360 in São Paulo, many Brazilians expressed a desire to invest in Portugal. The NHR regime, though revoked by the previous government, has a transition period until March 31, 2025, allowing reduced IRS rates on labor income. However, this regime has become complex and limited in competitiveness. Ferreira states, “This government needs to invest in new mechanisms” to attract wealthy individuals, especially as Portugal competes with other European countries offering similar programs.

The APPII proposes a new Smart, Social & Green Visa to stimulate investments in affordable housing and sustainability. The golden visa program lost much of its appeal when the option for residency through real estate purchases ended. Recent statistics show that Americans lead in obtaining golden visas, highlighting the need for Portugal to enhance the NHR program to attract high-net-worth individuals seeking new opportunities.

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2. Lisboa Barroca Festival Takes Over Graça on the Last Weekend of October

The second edition of the Lisboa Barroca Festival will take place in Graça on the last weekend of October, featuring concerts and a lunch with musical accompaniment across various locations in the neighborhood. The program begins on Saturday night, October 26, with the opening concert Between Light and Shadow, performed by soprano Lauren Lodge-Campbell and theorbo player Sergio Bucheli at Camones. The eclectic repertoire blends Baroque pieces by composers like Purcell, Dowland, and Monteverdi with modern songs by Rufus Wainwright, Cole Porter, and others.

On Sunday, October 27, the day starts at noon with a solo performance by Maria Bayley, who will present “love songs from the Iberian Peninsula” from the 17th and 18th centuries at Galeria Arte Graça. Following this, there will be a lunch at Penalva da Graça with a “musical surprise,” requiring advance reservations. The festival closes at 5:00 PM in Igreja da Graça with Paradisi: Visions of Paradise in the 17th Century, featuring works by composers like Schütz, Zielenski, and Bruhns, performed by Tiago Mota, Sergio Bucheli, and Maria Bayley.

Where? Graça (various locations). When? October 26-27. How much? 7 to 10 euros.

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3. Strike Will Affect Train Services for Nearly Two Weeks

The upcoming strike, called by the Railway Union of Commercial Review (SFRCI), will affect CP (Comboios de Portugal) services from October 24 to November 3. CP anticipates “significant disruptions across all services,” particularly on October 31, the eve of a holiday, and some disruptions on November 1. The prolonged weekend is expected to be when the strike most severely impacts train operations, with occasional disruptions on other days, especially in Lisbon Urban services and Intercity Lisbon-Algarve.

Disruptions are forecasted for regional and interregional services, along with urban services in Coimbra and Porto, specifically on October 28, 29, and 30. The International Celta service (Porto-Vigo) may also be affected. Passengers can request refunds for tickets purchased for affected services, both online and at ticket offices, up to 15 minutes before departure. After this period, refunds can be requested within ten days after the strike by filling out an online contact form. Alternatively, tickets can be exchanged for another train of the same category and class.

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4. Vinhais Celebrates Chestnut Season with Rural Castanea Festival and the Biggest Roast in the World

From October 25 to 27, Vinhais celebrates the chestnut at the Rural Castanea – Festa da Castanha, highlighting the chestnut’s economic significance. The event features the “World’s Largest Chestnut Roaster,” roasting one and a half tons of chestnuts for visitors. This festival emphasizes local products, with food stalls, competitions like the “Chestnut Eating Contest,” and various entertainment activities.

Another key attraction is the “Chestnut Harvesters” contest, along with culinary demonstrations by chef Bruno Cambado, showcasing innovative dishes with local ingredients. Visitors can participate in the “Soutos Route” walking tour and learn about chestnut trees. The festival promotes the region’s rich culture and the importance of chestnuts, with annual production around 15,000 tons.

With a focus on gastronomy, the event includes the popular “Magusto” and the “D’Gustar TTM” tasting initiative, celebrating local flavors. Concerts featuring Toy and Bárbara Bandeira add to the festive atmosphere. The Rural Castanea Festival highlights Vinhais’s role as a major chestnut producer, fostering community engagement and appreciation for local heritage.

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5. New Rock Engraving Over 20,000 Years Old Discovered near Santarém

A fourth engraving over 20,000 years old depicting a headless horse was discovered in the Ocreza Valley in Mação (Santarém). This Paleolithic art, resembling the earlier “Horse of Ocreza” found in 2000, indicates a pattern in rock art style, as it shows no evidence of a head. Researcher Sara Garcês emphasized its significance, describing the figure as “very interesting” and highlighting its novelty in the region.

The Ocreza Valley is now home to over a hundred engravings from various periods, with four dating back to the Upper Paleolithic. This ongoing prospecting project, set to continue until 2026, seeks to explore the valley’s archaeological potential further. Archaeologist Telmo Pereira noted that the area has garnered attention due to the recent discoveries and the increased tourist visits stemming from the Paleolithic art found there.

Pereira also stressed the importance of a trained eye for identifying engravings, as visibility can be challenging due to changing lighting conditions. The next objective is to associate these engravings with artifacts and sediments to understand the behavior and survival of people during a time of climatic crisis. The discoveries in the Ocreza Valley continue to shed light on the region’s rich archaeological history and the cultural practices of ancient communities.

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6. Prime Minister Luís Montenegro Announces Seven Decisions for Government Implementation

The Portuguese Prime Minister, during the closing speech of the PSD Congress, announced “seven new decisions” the Government will implement, focusing on key areas such as water, security, domestic violence, territorial cohesion, preschool education, health, and immigration. He emphasized that the PSD distinguishes itself by engaging in politics “in a civilized manner,” avoiding insults or belittling others, a remark seemingly aimed at the Chega party.

On water, Montenegro mentioned agreements with Spain and the launch of a water infrastructure program. In terms of security, he promised to strengthen police presence and create multidisciplinary teams to address violent crime, illegal immigration, and human trafficking. For domestic violence, he announced the doubling of financial support to help victims gain independence and a 25 million euro investment in teleassistance and transportation services for victims.

Regarding territorial cohesion, a new management entity called Parque Humberto Delgado will rehabilitate the southern riverside arc around Almada, Barreiro, and Seixal, and manage projects like the Ocean Campus. For education, he revealed increased public funding for preschool access and announced a revision of basic and secondary education curricula. In healthcare, he stated that 150,000 patients will be able to collect hospital medications from local pharmacies. On immigration, he announced new temporary accommodation centers in Lisbon and Porto, alongside a plan to attract foreign talent.

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7. Portuguese National Republican Guard (GNR) Recorded 103 Bullying Crimes in the 2023/2024 School Year

The GNR reported 103 bullying crimes in the 2023/2024 school year, including 12 cases of cyberbullying, announced the security force today, on World Anti-Bullying Day. In the context of preventing and combating violence, offenses, threats, and any form of intimidation in schools, the GNR has joined this day “due to its relevance in the lives of children and young people.” “Violence occurs outside the sight of adults, and many victims hide or avoid reporting the aggression they have suffered, which is why this awareness campaign extends to parents, teachers, and staff to look for warning signs that should be reported and recognized in the school and family environment,” stated the GNR.

The Guard indicated that it carried out 1,960 awareness-raising actions related to bullying during the 2023/2024 school year, aimed at 71,866 children and young people, primarily in school contexts, covering 1,898 public and private educational institutions, according to provisional data. In the current school year, and up to October 17, the GNR has conducted 244 awareness-raising actions related to bullying, reaching 8,729 children across 236 educational institutions.

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8. Oliveira Twins Finish Just Off the Podium at Track World Championships

The Oliveira twins, Rui and Ivo, finished in fourth place in the madison at the Track World Championships in Ballerup, Denmark, just six points shy of the podium. Competing against strong teams, they showcased their status among the best track cyclists in the world. Rui Oliveira, the Olympic champion, noted their performance was one of their best, highlighting their strong coordination and strategy during the race.

Portugal surprised by gaining a lap lead and maximum points early on, demonstrating a strong start. However, the German duo of Roger Kluge and Tim Torn Teutenberg ultimately dominated the race, while the Belgians secured silver and the Danes took bronze. Ivo Oliveira expressed pride in their race despite falling short of a medal, and Rui reflected on mistakes that hindered their chances, emphasizing their phenomenal legs throughout the competition.

In addition, Diogo Narciso also competed strongly in the elimination race, finishing fourth amid a controversial incident involving the Dutch rider Jan-Willem van Schip. Meanwhile, young cyclist Tobias Hansen secured gold in the men’s individual pursuit, and Portuguese Daniela Campos finished 12th in the points race. The championships were marked by intense competition, showcasing the talent and determination of athletes on the global stage.

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9. Air France – KLM Hires Legal Team for TAP Privatization

Air France-KLM has hired the American law firm Skadden and the Portuguese firm J+Legal to provide legal advisory for the privatization of TAP, the Portuguese airline. Diogo Leónidas from J+Legal will lead the team in Portugal, supporting Skadden in this process. This move signals strong interest from the Franco-Dutch group in acquiring TAP, with a meeting scheduled between Air France-KLM and the Portuguese government later this month.

Meanwhile, other competitors, such as IAG (owner of British Airways and Iberia) and Lufthansa, are also gearing up for the privatization process. IAG has engaged Vieira de Almeida for legal services, while Lufthansa has retained PLMJ. The government, having met with IAG and Lufthansa, will consult with Air France-KLM before outlining its proposal for the sale of the company, with new valuations of TAP’s value currently underway.

Air France-KLM is working with both Skadden and J+Legal to ensure a blend of local knowledge and international expertise in financial and M&A operations. The Dutch group has also secured a financial advisor, though their identity remains undisclosed, and LLYC has handled their communication strategy since last summer.

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10. Government Aims for Overhaul of Fixed Internet and 5G Coverage, with Brussels Offering €865 Million in Support

The Portuguese government aims to enhance the country’s connectivity through the requalification of fixed internet and 5G coverage. The 2025 State Budget proposal emphasizes reducing regional disparities and boosting economic development in the interior, with the European Commission offering €865 million through the Connecting Europe Facility (CEF Digital) to finance digital connectivity projects across the EU. However, despite intentions for “technical and financial cooperation,” no specific funds or measures have been allocated by the government toward achieving these goals, and the international tender for fiber optics has still not been launched.

The proposal indicates that the Ministry of Territorial Cohesion intends to promote economic development and improve living conditions through decentralizing competencies from the Central to Local Administration. The government emphasizes the importance of local authorities in public policies and aims to support significant regional projects, including high-speed internet and 5G networks, while addressing the needs of low-density territories. There is a project in progress to extend internet access to areas lacking connectivity, referred to as “white areas,” with €350 million earmarked for this initiative.

Despite previous announcements about covering 400,000 homes in the interior with broadband, the tender has yet to be issued, leaving many areas without high-speed internet. The European Commission continues to seek large-scale connectivity projects, aiming for a Gigabit Society by 2030. As of the last call, Portugal received significant funding for a new system of underwater cables linking the mainland to the Azores and Madeira, demonstrating the ongoing efforts to improve national connectivity.

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