Cascais

On November 1, 1755, a massive earthquake, followed by a tsunami and several fires, devastated Lisbon and surrounding areas, including Cascais. This natural disaster caused thousands of deaths and extensive destruction. The quake had widespread effects on architecture and raised questions about city planning. In Cascais, buildings were severely damaged, significantly affecting the fishing community and impacting the local economy, as it relied heavily on maritime activities.

In 1870, King Luís I of Portugal made the Citadel of Cascais the official summer residence for the Portuguese Royal Family. This decision transformed the town into an important tourist destination and royal retreat. The presence of the royal family in Cascais led to significant developments, including improvements in local infrastructure, such as communication and transport links, and the establishment of luxurious residences, hotels, and cultural venues like the Teatro Gil Vicente.

Initiated in June 1940, the Estoril Conferences were a series of meetings and an influential think tank held during World War II in Cascais. These conferences brought together refugees, intellectuals, and politicians from across Europe. The town served as a place of exile for many displaced by the war, and these gatherings were centered around the Hotel Palácio and other prominent local venues. The discussions encompassed Europe's future and political ideas.

On November 28, 1964, Cascais hosted the International Sailing Federation (ISAF) Sailing World Championships. This prestigious event brought together elite sailors from around the world to compete in the challenging waters off Cascais. Hosting the event enhanced Cascais's reputation as a prime location for sailing due to its favorable wind conditions and scenic coastline. The successful event helped bolster tourism and investment in maritime activities.

In 1983, authorities declared the historical center of Cascais a protected area due to its cultural and architectural significance. This recognition aimed to preserve the rich heritage of the buildings, streets, and local traditions that date back several centuries. The town's efforts to maintain its traditional architectural styles while modernizing its infrastructure attracted significant tourism interest and contributed to a heightened local cultural identity.

On May 10, 1992, Cascais was awarded the European Community Architectural Heritage Award. This accolade was in recognition of its exceptional efforts in preserving cultural heritage through the maintenance and restoration of historic buildings within its limits. The award highlighted the municipality's dedication to the conservation of historical monuments and the enhancement of urban landscapes, serving as a model for other European towns and cities.

The Museum Condes de Castro Guimarães, located in Cascais, reopened its doors to the public on June 22, 1998, after extensive renovation. The museum is housed in an early 20th-century mansion and features a collection of Portuguese and international art, historical artifacts, and a notable library. Its reopening marked an important milestone in the cultural life of Cascais, offering residents and visitors insight into the region's history and art.

Cascais was officially declared a Fair Trade Town on July 7, 2005, part of a global movement recognizing towns that support and promote fair trade practices. This designation was achieved through the collaboration of local businesses, government, and community organizations. The commitment to fair trade emphasized social and economic justice, fostering sustainable development and ethical production standards within the community. Cascais's proactive stance on fair trade enhanced its international reputation.

Cascais hosted the Americas Cup World Series in 2012, from September 15 onwards. This high-profile event attracted top sailing teams from around the globe and was part of a series of competitions leading up to the America’s Cup. The picturesque coast of Cascais provided an ideal setting for the races, drawing spectators and boosting local tourism. The event showcased Cascais’s capabilities in hosting major international sporting events and emphasized its nautical traditions.

On February 13, 2018, Cascais was awarded the title of European Youth Capital. This designation recognized the town's efforts to involve young people in education, culture, and civic engagement. A series of youth-focused activities and events were organized throughout the year, encouraging participation and innovation among the younger population. The title brought European-wide recognition to Cascais's initiatives, fostering a sense of community and inclusivity among its youth.