Portugal's history is a compelling narrative of ancient origins, maritime glory, and modern transformation, uniquely positioned on the Iberian Peninsula. Ancient Beginnings and Roman Legacy Originating from prehistoric times, Portugal saw successive influences from Phoenicians, Greeks, and Carthaginians before falling under Roman control in the 2nd century BC. The Romans laid the groundwork for the Portuguese language and infrastructure. Emergence of a Kingdom Post-Roman era, the region experienced invasions by Germanic tribes and Moors. The Christian Reconquista culminated in the establishment of Portugal as an independent kingdom in 1143, with Afonso Henriques recognized as king after conquering Lisbon in 1147. Golden Age of Discoveries The 15th and 16th centuries marked Portugal's Age of Discoveries. Figures like Prince Henry the Navigator and explorers Bartolomeu Dias and Vasco da Gama expanded Portuguese influence to Africa, India, and Brazil, establishing a vast maritime empire.