This article seeks to evaluate regional convergence/divergence in the 90’s as a transitional process including
traditional, modern and post-modern socio-demographic issues. In order to address this transitional process,
parish-based typologies are built and spatial metaphors are used as vision-making tools. We argue that a
new cognitive approach towards the study of territorial dynamics is needed in order to open up a more
accurate understanding of the regional convergence/divergence mechanisms in Portugal.

keywords: Portugal, regional convergence/divergence, transitional process, space-time configurations