Portugal appoints Paulo Portas to lead 900‑year foundation commemorations

The Portuguese government announced the creation of the National Commission for the Celebration of the 900th anniversary of Portugal's foundation. Prime Minister Luís Montenegro said the commission, to be headed by former minister Paulo Portas, will ensure a systematic and coherent approach to the nation’s founding period.

The first major milestone the commission will mark is the 900th anniversary of the Battle of São Mamede in 2028, followed by the 9th centenary of the Battle of Ourique in 2039 and the signing of the Treaty of Zamora in 2043. An honor council will include former presidents António Ramalho Eanes, Aníbal Cavaco Silva and Marcelo Rebelo de Sousa, as well as representatives of the three largest parliamentary parties. Culture Minister Margarida Balseiro Lopes will provide further details on the commission’s financing.