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Bridges that Unite Cultures: The Week Turkey Came to Us

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Bridges that Unite Cultures: The Week Turkey Came to Us

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After our unforgettable trip to Turkey, we had the honour of welcoming our Turkish friends as part of the ERASMUS+ project. During an intense week full of memorable moments, we shared emotions, experiences and lessons that will remain in our memories forever.

This week was much more than a simple cultural exchange — it was a true celebration of friendship, sharing and the European spirit. Between activities, visits, laughter and farewells, we forged bonds that will surely transcend borders and time.

Without a doubt, this experience was unique and unforgettable, leaving us all with the certainty that Erasmus is not just a project... it is a journey of growth, unity and mutual discovery.

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The first day marked the beginning of an unforgettable week. It was with great enthusiasm and some curiosity that we gathered, together with our families, in the city centre to welcome our Turkish friends. The atmosphere was filled with smiles, shy hugs and looks full of expectation — it was the moment when two cultures truly met.

After the initial introductions and conversations, each Turkish student was welcomed by their respective family. The journey home was the beginning of a new phase: a time to share habits, stories, and traditions. Between curiosity and the desire to make them feel at home, the first connections and bonds were quickly formed.

In each home, there was a mixture of emotions — the novelty, enthusiasm and joy of welcoming someone from so far away. It was a day full of discoveries, laughter and sharing that set the perfect tone for what would be a week full of unique and unforgettable moments.

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The second day of the visit was dedicated to the school, the heart of the project and the meeting point of our cultures. Early in the morning, the Turkish students were welcomed with warmth and enthusiasm by the school management, in a meaningful welcome ceremony. This was followed by presentations on the culture of both countries, which allowed us to discover similarities, differences and curiosities that sparked everyone's interest.

To break the ice and bring the groups even closer together, we carried out some icebreaking activities, full of dynamism and joy. Laughter and sharing filled the space, creating a relaxed and welcoming atmosphere, where everyone felt part of a big team.

Later, we visited the primary school, where the younger pupils welcomed our guests with great enthusiasm. It was a touching and inspiring moment, showing that friendship and curiosity know no age limits.

During the afternoon, participants had the opportunity to observe the activities of the ‘Orienta-te’ project.

In the middle of the afternoon, we went to the Town Hall, where we were warmly welcomed by the councillor, who highlighted the importance of projects such as Erasmus in building bridges between peoples and cultures.

The day ended in a relaxed manner, with a shared snack and moments of conviviality that reinforced the bonds created since the first day. Between conversations, laughter and new friendships, it became clear that this experience was becoming much more than a simple exchange — it was the beginning of memories that will last forever.

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Discovering Guimarães, the Cradle of Portugal

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Discovering Guimarães, the Cradle of Portugal

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On the third day of the Turkish students' visit to Portugal, we set off for Guimarães, the birthplace of the nation. Early in the morning, we visited the imposing Guimarães Castle, where the history of Portugal began to be written. Among ancient walls and breathtaking landscapes, we were able to imagine medieval times and understand the importance of this place in the formation of our country.

Next, we headed to the Palace of the Dukes of Bragança, a magnificent palace that transported us to the noble life of the 15th century. As we explored its rooms and corridors, we shared interesting facts and explained the historical and cultural value of this monument.

Afterwards, we strolled through the historic centre of Guimarães, with its cobbled streets and typical façades, which made us feel part of a real medieval setting. We took the opportunity to tell our Turkish guests about the importance of this heritage and its recognition as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

In the afternoon, we took the cable car up to Penha, a place surrounded by nature and tranquillity, where we spent some time exploring and enjoying the magnificent view over the city. It was a moment of relaxation and sharing among everyone.

At the end of the day, we returned home and ended the day with a group dinner at a local restaurant, where good humour, friendship and the spirit of cultural exchange that marked this unforgettable experience reigned supreme.

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The Light of Porto and the Embrace of the Douro

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The Light of Porto and the Embrace of the Douro

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The fourth day of the Turkish students' visit to Portugal began in a lively and energetic manner. In the morning, they joined us in Physical Education class, where they enthusiastically participated in all activities. It was a fun moment of sharing and integration, where, amid laughter and team spirit, we strengthened the bonds that have been created over the past few days.

After class, we set off for Porto for a day full of discoveries. The first stop was the magnificent Livraria Lello, a true architectural and cultural treasure, which left everyone amazed with its imposing staircases and magical atmosphere that inspires any book lover.

Next, we strolled along Avenida dos Aliados, enjoying the beauty of the historic buildings and the vibrant life of the city. We also passed by the iconic São Bento Station, where the tiles tell the story of Portugal in colour and detail.

In the afternoon, we embarked on a cruise along the Douro River, one of the most enchanting moments of the day. The bridges, the reflection of the colourful houses in the calm waters and the breathtaking view over the river banks made this experience truly memorable.

On returning home, there was still time for a pleasant stroll through the city, followed by a group dinner, where good humour and friendship were once again the highlight. Amidst conversation and laughter, the day ended in the best possible way — with the feeling that this cultural exchange has been not only an opportunity to learn, but also to create memories that will last forever.

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The fifth day of the Turkish students' visit to Portugal began with several group activities, which further strengthened the spirit of cooperation and friendship among everyone. In a relaxed and cheerful atmosphere, Portuguese and Turkish students worked side by side, sharing ideas, experiences and lots of laughter.

Next, we set off to visit the Monastery of Pombeiro, one of the most emblematic monuments in the region. The grandeur of its architecture and the tranquillity of the place impressed all visitors, making this stop a true immersion in Portuguese history and culture.

Afterwards, we made a sweet visit to Casa do Pão de Ló, where we had the opportunity to learn about the traditional process of making this delicacy and, of course, taste it while it was still warm.

Later, we went to Escola de Lagares, where the Turkish students were able to visit the facilities, interact with the school community and have lunch in a welcoming and festive atmosphere. After lunch, we returned to our school for a few more activities, always with the same enthusiasm and spirit of sharing that marked the entire week.

One of the most significant moments of the day was the presentation of the Erasmus+ project participation certificates, a symbol of the commitment, learning and friendship built between everyone.

To end this very special day, there was a get-together between teachers, Portuguese and Turkish students, and host families. It was an afternoon full of emotion, music, conversation and smiles, celebrating not only the experiences we had had, but also the bonds we had created during these unforgettable days.

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From Portugal to Turkey: Memories that Cross Borders

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From Portugal to Turkey: Memories that Cross Borders

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The sixth and final day of the Turkish students' visit began on an emotional note. Early in the morning, the most difficult moment arrived: saying goodbye to their host families. There were heartfelt hugs, looks of gratitude and promises to meet again in the future. During the week, genuine bonds had been formed, and it was impossible to hide the emotion when saying ‘see you soon’.

The students then went to the school to evaluate the activities they had done in Portugal. It was a moment of reflection and sharing, where everyone had the opportunity to express what they had learned, what they liked most, and how this experience had marked their lives.

At the end of the morning, it was time for the official farewells. Amid smiles and tears, we exchanged words of friendship and gratitude, aware that this week will remain forever etched in our memories.

With their bags packed and their hearts full of memories, our Turkish friends left to return to Turkey, taking a little bit of Portugal with them — and leaving a piece of themselves here.