Ala-arriba (pronounced as /pt/) is an expression that means "(upwards) strength" used by the population of the Portuguese city of Póvoa de Varzim. It represents the co-operation between the inhabitants and is also the motto of Póvoa de Varzim. This expression was used when the population dragged a boat to the beach, before the harbour was built.
After the harbour of Póvoa de Varzim this practise died out. Despite that the expression continued being used to name companies, and by some politicians.
There is also an Ala-arriba march. Lyrics by Albano Ribeiro, and music by Eduardo Correia.
note: each verse repeats twice.
| valign=top | Portuguese lyrics Póvoa Terra querida Como tu não há igual És ainda a mais bonita Que existe em Portugal Ala-arriba pela Póvoa Terra nossa bem amada Ala-arriba pela Póvoa Terra nossa abençoada Póvoa Terra bendita Nossa terra e nosso lar Enquanto tivermos vida Havemos de te honrar Ala-arriba pela Póvoa Terra nossa bem amada Ala-arriba pela Póvoa Terra nossa abençoada | valign=top | English translation Póvoa dear Land Like you there is no other You are still the most beautiful That exists in Portugal Ala-arriba for Póvoa Our much-loved Land Ala-arriba for Póvoa Our blessed Land Póvoa hallowed Land Our Land and our home While we have life We will honour you Ala-arriba for Póvoa Our much-loved Land Ala-arriba for Póvoa Our blessed Land |