The Portuguese sailors who first arrived in Taiwan in the 16th century were struck by the island's beauty, particularly its lush vegetation and scenic coastline. They named it "Ilha Formosa" to reflect this, and the name stuck.
However, the meaning of "Ilha Formosa" goes beyond just a literal translation. It also represents the initial impression that Europeans had of Taiwan - a land that seemed pristine and captivating. This initial impression was partly shaped by the fact that Taiwan was then largely uninhabited by Europeans, and its native populations were unknown to them.
Over time, the name "Formosa" evolved into a term that encompassed not only the beauty of the island but also its cultural and historical significance.