Republic Day in Portugal marks the establishment of the Portuguese Republic in 1910, ending over seven centuries of monarchy. The day commemorates the revolution that began in Lisbon and ushered in a new era of democracy, secularism and modern governance. Republic Day honors Portugal's transition to a republican state and the enduring values of freedom, equality and civic participation.

When is Republic Day?

Republic Day in Portugal is celebrated on October 5 every year.

The following is the list of Republic Day from 2020 to 2049.

The History of Republic Day?

For centuries, Portugal was ruled by a monarchy, beginning with the founding of the kingdom in 1139. By the late 19th and early 20th centuries, the monarchy faced growing political instability, economic hardship, and public dissatisfaction.

The royal government was criticized for corruption, colonial failures, and its alliance with the Catholic Church. Meanwhile, republican and progressive movements were gaining strength, advocating for democracy, secularism and modernization.

On October 4, 1910, republican activists, supported by parts of the Portuguese army and navy, launched an uprising in Lisbon against King Manuel II. By the morning of October 5, the revolution had succeeded: the monarchy was overthrown, and Portugal was declared a republic. King Manuel II fled to exile in England, marking the end of the House of Braganza's rule and seven centuries of Portuguese monarchy.

The Provisional Government took power on October 5, 1910, and officially proclaimed the Portuguese Republic. However, the First Republic faced internal divisions, economic instability, and frequent changes in government. This unrest eventually led to the military coup of 1926, which paved the way for the Estado Novo dictatorship under António de Oliveira Salazar.

Under Salazar's Estado Novo regime, Republic Day was celebrated but stripped of its democratic meaning. The Carnation Revolution on April 25, 1974, ended the dictatorship and restored democracy.

Republic Day regained its true significance as a celebration of freedom, civic values and republican ideals. It became a day to remember the courage of those who fought for democracy and to honor Portugal's republican identity.