Portugal 2,5 Euro 2017 Masks Tras os Montes

Trás-os-Montes is the most remote area of Portugal. It literally translates as æBehind the mountainsÆ. In this region, in the north east of Portugal, there are many traditions and ancient uses that are sometimes thousands of years old. During the Carnival the boys dress in colourful costumes and wear masks that all have a pointed nose. This fertility ritual is used to attempt to expel evil spirits. On the face of the coin, above a horseÆs head and neck, are three men in masks. In a circle is the text "Caretos Trás-os-Montes" (Masks of Trás-os-Montes). In the centre of the reverse of the coin is the coat of arms of Portugal, with the value of 2.5 Euro above. Above the value is the country name of Portugal and the year 2017. At the bottom of the coin a group of men dressed in the costumes and masks of the Trás-os-Montes are depicted.