At the end of Peter´s presentation on Famous Portuguese, he made a number of remarks about the famous dictator Marquês de Pombal. Cordially hated when he was dismissed in 1777, Pombal was vilified by the aristocracy and hounded by the lawyers of the new Queen, D Maria I.

Consigned to the dustbin of history, you would think. But in 1915, politicians of the young Republic planned a public memorial to this man, and his statue now stands at a major junction in the capital, enjoying perhaps the best view in Lisbon. It took about 140 years for Pombal to emerge from the shadows of history into the limelight of today.

Why are opinions so divided on his actions and his legacy? Does Portugal still enjoy the fruits of his labour? And will Dr Salazar enjoy a similar re-evaluation?

Peter´s talk will take place on Tuesday, May 27, at the Municipal Library in Lagoa, and on Friday, May 30, at 11am in Tavira Library. Our talks are free, and there is an opportunity to make a contribution to the running of the Association. We shall be organising a lunch after the talk in Tavira - if you wish to have lunch with Lynne and me at our usual restaurant, please be in touch.

As the summer is at last here, no doubt we shall be able to enjoy the garden!