So I don't say I didn't speak of flowers
For those nostalgic for April 24th, carnations on April 25th are an abomination, regardless of their colour. A column by Ana Cristina Leonardo.

Latest news and stories about carnation revolution in Portugal for expats and residents.



For those nostalgic for April 24th, carnations on April 25th are an abomination, regardless of their colour. A column by Ana Cristina Leonardo.


The Carnation Revolution occupies an almost untouchable place in the Portuguese collective imagination. Elevated to the founding myth of democracy, it is frequently presented as a moment of liberation and rupture with the authoritarian past. However, this dominant narrative tends to oversimplify a complex historical process and, above all, to ignore the ideological deviations that marked it.

It has been 20 years since a President of the Republic entered the Assembly of the Republic wearing a carnation on their lapel. The author reflects on the significance of the carnation as a symbol of democracy, peace, and the peaceful nature of the Carnation Revolution, arguing that it transcends political party lines and represents the best of Portuguese identity.
Historian Maria Inácia Rezola discusses the international impact of the 1974 Carnation Revolution, the role of Western powers during Portugal's transition to democracy, and the significance of the country's eventual accession to the European Economic Community.

The annual commemorative parade marking the Carnation Revolution returns to the streets of Lisbon.



In Lisbon, the 52nd anniversary of the Carnation Revolution was celebrated on Avenida da Liberdade, in a parade marked by the presence of several generations who are apprehensive about the future.

A survey on the 25th of April and Portuguese democracy also reveals what the Portuguese think about the consequences of the fall of the dictatorship in Portugal and whether they consider that there is enough remembrance of the Carnation Revolution. Finally, the answer to the question: what is celebrated on the 25th of April?

Thousands of people took to the streets in Porto and Lisbon to commemorate the Carnation Revolution which, 52 years ago, put an end to the longest dictatorship in Europe.

“Civil society in Portugal is not on the best path,” said Maurício, a doctor, as he prepared to walk down the avenue.

Thousands of citizens take to the streets across Portugal to commemorate the anniversary of the Carnation Revolution.


Wielding carnations, people of all ages filled Avenida da Liberdade in Lisbon and the streets of Porto.

Carolina Caeiro Fontela tells the story of her grandmother, Celeste Caeiro, also known as “Celeste of the Carnations”, in a book. It is a tribute to her grandmother, who passed away in November 2024.
Celebrations marking the 52nd anniversary of the Carnation Revolution are underway with parades held in various cities throughout Portugal.

An analysis of the historical and social impact of the book 'Novas Cartas Portuguesas' (New Portuguese Letters), written by Maria Isabel Barreno, Maria Teresa Horta, and Maria Velho da Costa in 1971. The article reflects on the legacy of the Carnation Revolution, the ongoing struggle for women's rights in Portugal, and current challenges such as domestic violence and access to reproductive healthcare, as highlighted by recent Amnesty International reports.

An analysis of how the 1974 Carnation Revolution is portrayed and covered by media outlets in Portugal.

Speech by the President of the Republic at the solemn session commemorating the 52nd anniversary of the 25th of April 1974.

Portugal marks the 52nd anniversary of the Carnation Revolution, highlighting concerns regarding the state of democracy and global peace.

The Social Democratic Party (PSD) highlights the significant impact of the 1974 Carnation Revolution on the Madeira archipelago.

A visual record of the formal ceremony marking the 52nd anniversary of the Carnation Revolution in Portugal.

A commemoration of the Carnation Revolution, marking the end of the dictatorship in Portugal.

We are free as long as the dream moves us. As long as we have arms that build, that support, that do not shrink before others. Chronicle by Manuela Castro
