Portugal Travel

Every country has its own distinct musical style, and for the Portuguese, the most popular among their original music creations is the one that they call Fado.

Fado is a popular music genre in Portugal with roots dating back in the 1820s. Fado’s literal meaning is “fate” or “destiny”. The style used in Fado music is characterized by mournful melodies about the sea, hardships and love.

In 2007, the UNESCO listed Fado in their Intangible Heritage List.

Types of Fado

There are 2 main types of Fado: Coimbra and Lisbon.

Coimbra Fado is exclusively sung by men. This tradition has its links to the University of Coimbra, making it common for Coimbra Fado musicians to done school uniforms as costumes for their performances.

The Coimbra Fado is usually accompanied by the sound of a Portuguese or a Classical Guitar. Most songs are about student life, hardships of study, young love and other topics related to the lives of college students. Some songs can be given a twist such as adding humor or political topics.

Famous Coimbra Fado songs include Fado Hilario, Balada da Despidida and Samaritana.

Lisbon Fado in the other hand does not limit its singers to males. Singers are also accompanied by 2 guitarists. Most Lisbon Fado songs are inspired by love, longing and failure.

Amalia Rodrigues and other Popular Fado Artists

Amalia Rodrigues is probably the most popular Fado artist. She is the one who first introduced Fado to the world by performing in different countries such as Japan, America, South America and the rest of Europe. She is considered a national icon in Portugal. For those who want to sample Fado, her album The Art of Amalia is the best choice for you.

For those who want to listen to more modern types of Fado, you can look for songs by Mariza. Mariza is considered the new queen of Fado. She is a Grammy award multi-nominee and is known all around the world. She also done a number of world tours and has performed in some of the most popular talk shows in the US.

Fado Clubs in Lisbon

For a good night’s entertainment in Portugal, you should head out to some of Lisbon’s popular Fado restaurants or “ Casa de Fado”.

Café Lusto is one of the most popular Lisbon restaurants that features Fado music. Other popular Fado restaurants in Lisbon are Casa de Linhares, Clube de Fado and Senhor Vinho.

These restaurants is a must see in Lisbon. And for your cheap airline tickets to Lisbon and anywhere in Portugal, you can book here at Up Down Portugal.

Up Down Portugal can also get you cheap hotel bookings in Lisbon, Coimbra, Sintra and the rest of Portugal.