Portuguese culture is directly linked to its geographical location and history that bursts from the tops of its castles, mountains, cliffs, and considerable protected landscapes, wildlife sanctuaries, and natural reserves. Portugal is one of the oldest nations in Europe and its cultural heritage has been marked by influences from Africa, America, Asia, and by the people who lived there before its foundation. Mainly in all cities, but also when traveling through the country, you will notice the consistent presence of tilework in the architecture. Not many other countries have so many tiled exteriors of houses, churches, and palaces. These tiles began to be produced in Portugal at the end of the 15^th century, but the traditional blue and white style really started to become more prominent in the 18^th century.