Best of Portugal

Portuguese embroidery

Portugal is located in the south western part of the continent of Europe. It is surrounded on the south and west by the Atlantic Ocean while Spain flanks it on the northern and eastern parts. In the ancient times, Portugal was subjugated by the formidable Romans and at that time Portugal was known as Lusitania. It was in the 12th century that Portugal attained independence post the battle of Ourique. Since then Portugal has patronized the Age of Discovery in the 13th and 14th century and with the discovery of new lands especially towards the east, the slowly emerging powerful Portugal colonized various nations. At present, Portugal is one among the formidable world powers and is economically one of the strongest countries of the world. Portuguese culture has therefore faced various influences at different stage in the course of time and its effects are seen considerably in the embroidery patterns practiced by the Portuguese. Portuguese embroidery patterns are extremely famous worldwide for their intricacies and detailing.

Embroidery is one of the significant means of beautifying garments and clothing. In Portugal a variety of embroidery patterns are practiced extensively. Basic stitching patterns like the cross stitch and chain stitch are practiced and despite the fact that these stitches have originated in the East Asian countries, in Portugal they are practiced with equal vigor which shows how the Portuguese adapt to foreign influences. Even Italian embroidery patterns like Casalguidi, Sorbello etc are also modified and stitched in Portugal. Various kinds of Portuguese embroidery patterns practiced include the Palestrina stitch, the Cretan stitch, the Rosette stitch, the bullion knot, the Montenegrin cross stitch, the coral stitch, the herringbone stitch and many others. From simple designs to floral motifs, knots and complex designs, the Portuguese artisans are masters of the art and produce wonderful products which have impressed audiences the world over.