Portuguese Superstitions and Their Origins

Portuguese Superstitions and Their Origins

Have you ever heard that opening an umbrella indoors brings bad luck? Did you know that this superstition may have originated because, in the past, umbrellas were so rigid that they could break objects or even injure someone?

And what about breaking a mirror? They say it brings seven years of bad luck!
It is believed that this idea dates back to Ancient Rome, where mirrors were thought to reflect not only one’s image, but also the soul – and breaking them could bring misfortune.

The habit of knocking on wood to ward off bad luck may have its origins in ancient rituals, in which trees were seen as protectors against evil spirits.
Believe it or not, these superstitions are still part of the daily lives of many Portuguese people. And you, do you follow any of them?