History of Fado that is more than music; it is the soul of Portugal expressed through songs filled with emotion and melancholy. Originating in the early 19th century, Fado was born in Lisbon’s neighborhoods, such as Alfama and Mouraria, as a voice for the feelings of the people.
Its origins remain mysterious, but it is believed to have been influenced by various cultures, including Arabic, African, and Brazilian, reflecting Portugal’s diverse history. Initially associated with the working class, Fado gained international acclaim thanks to artists like Amália Rodrigues, who brought this tradition to global stages.
Fado is traditionally performed with the accompaniment of the Portuguese guitar, whose distinctive sound amplifies the emotion of the lyrics, often centered on themes of longing, love, and life’s struggles. In 2011, it was recognized as an Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity by UNESCO.
The History of Fado: Tradition and Emotion of Portugal
The first and most well-known fado singer was Maria Severa, a prostitute and lover of the Count of Vimioso, who introduced Fado to the high aristocracy. Initially, Fado was sung spontaneously in various places, such as courtyards, bullfights, narrow streets, and alleys, with urban lyrics that reflected daily life and were connected to marginality and environments frequented by prostitutes, sailors, and bohemians.
Today, Fado lives on in Lisbon and Porto’s fado houses, where both locals and visitors can experience this deeply Portuguese musical tradition and plenty of history of Fado
With the end of the dictatorship, interest in Fado declined among younger generations. However, in the 1980s, a new generation of fado singers, including the famous Marisa, revived this tradition. In 1999, the global icon of Fado, Amália Rodrigues, passed away, and her funeral ceremonies drew around 100,000 people, showcasing the profound connection of the Portuguese to this cultural expression.
A visit to Lisbon is never complete without experiencing a traditional Fado restaurant. Ask us now how to find the best spot for this unique experience.
