Summary:
Ramadan is celebrated by millions of Muslims, including over 50,000 in Portugal.
The celebration lasts from February 28 to March 30, ending with Eid al-Fitr.
Fasting occurs from dawn until sunset, with exceptions for certain groups.
In Lisbon, the Central Mosque will provide around 2,000 meals daily for iftar.
The period is marked by spiritual purification, charity, and community activities.
Understanding Ramadan
With the arrival of Ramadan, we explore this significant celebration, its unique customs, and how Lisbon prepares to embrace it.
Photo: Haris Mujanovic / Shutterstock.com
Millions of Muslims, including over 50,000 in Portugal, observe Ramadan from February 28 (or when the New Moon is sighted) until March 30, culminating in the Eid al-Fitr (Festival of Breaking the Fast).
What is Ramadan?
Ramadan is one of the five pillars of Islam celebrated by believers worldwide. During this time, Muslims practice fasting from dawn until sunset, refraining from food, drink, smoking, and sexual relations.
There are exceptions to fasting for the elderly, pregnant or menstruating women, the sick, and travelers. This period is not just about abstinence; it also emphasizes spiritual purification through charity, intense prayers, and readings of the Quran, the holy book of Islam.
Credit: Radu Bercan / Shutterstock.com | Central Mosque of Lisbon
When Does Ramadan Occur?
Ramadan does not have a fixed date due to the lunar Islamic calendar, making it shorter than the Gregorian calendar used in most of the Western world. Each year, Ramadan begins about 10 to 11 days earlier. Occasionally, it may be celebrated more than once a year.
The start of Ramadan is determined by the sighting of the moon at the end of Shaaban (the eighth month of the Islamic calendar). If the moon cannot be sighted, astronomical calculations are used to determine the beginning and end of Ramadan.
Photo: @omilaev / Unsplash | Generic Image
How is Ramadan Celebrated in Lisbon?
According to information from the Lusa Agency, one of the focal points of Ramadan in the Portuguese capital is the Central Mosque of Lisbon.
It is estimated that around 2,000 meals will be provided daily to break the fast at sunset (known as iftar). Activities planned include recitations, lectures, religious education classes, and the distribution of clothing to those in need.
Ramadan generally concludes with Eid al-Fitr, a day marked by festive meals and a vibrant atmosphere of joy.
Photo: Drazen Zigic / Shutterstock.com
A Culinary Overview
In Lisbon, several Arab restaurants offer traditional dishes that mark Ramadan. For instance, at Jafra (Rua de Alves Torgo), there is a themed menu available throughout the day for €25.
Alternatively, you can dive into a gastronomic tour dedicated to the best of Lebanese cuisine in Lisbon. This period reflects the multicultural aspect of the city!
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