Fado is a style of music deeply rooted in Portuguese culture, which developed above all in Lisbon, and which has transcended mere entertainment to become a symbol of national identity.

Its melancholy and lyricism have been recognised and celebrated in various spheres, both inside and outside Portugal. Among the many honours, we highlight some awards and distinctions that underline the continued importance of this musical genre.

On 27 November 2011, Fado received one of the greatest recognitions possible when it was inscribed on UNESCO’s List of Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity. This emphasises the importance of Fado, not just as a style of music, but as a vital element of Portuguese cultural heritage. This recognition celebrates Fado as an authentic expression of Portuguese identity that reflects the soul and history of the country.

One of the main milestones of recognition in the world of Fado are the Amália Rodrigues awards, named in honour of the legendary fado singer. These awards are given to artists who stand out for their excellence in music and their contribution to the promotion of Fado.

In addition to the awards named in honour of fado singer Amália Rodrigues, there are also the José Afonso awards, in honour of singer-songwriter José Afonso. This award is an important recognition for Portuguese music artists, including those in the Fado genre, as it not only celebrates individual talent, but also the ability to influence and enrich Portuguese popular music.

Fado not only maintains a central place in Portuguese culture, but is also widely recognised and celebrated for its richness and depth. These awards and recognitions reinforce the importance of Fado as a cultural treasure, as it continues to captivate and inspire people all over the world.