In the heart of the green and fertile province of Minho, the district of Braga stretches from the sea inland, with a wooded scenery that ondulates in gentle hills and valleys.
The city of Braga, perhaps Portugal's main religious centre, is known for its baroque churches, splendid 18th century houses and elaborate gardens and parks. The old city is solemn and antique, but industry and commerce have brought to it a lively style of life, with its universities, modern neighbourhoods, bars and restaurants.
Not far, the city of Guimarães, known as the birthplace of the nation, is a place to visit, with its proud castle and well-preserved medieval quarter.
The city of Barcelos is known for its ceramics (specially the Galo –chicken- de Barcelos) and animated weekly market, the largest in the region, while Citânia de Briteiros is an impressive archaeological site of the iron age.
On the coast, Esposende, Ofir and Apúlia are beautiful wild-looking beaches. The whole district is famous for its popular feasts and festivals and for the local gastronomy, with many and varied original recipes.
The city's principal landmarks include a 12th-century cathedral, rebuilt during the 16th century in the blend of Moorish and florid Gothic styles known as Manueline; the 17th-century church of Santa Cruz; and a library that contains many rare books and manuscripts. On a hill about 3 miles (5 km) south east stands the sanctuary of Bom Jesus do Monte, which is visited on Whitsunday by thousands of pilgrims and is famous for its 18th-century architectural staircase. About a mile beyond it is Mount Sameiro, atop which is situated a colossal statue of the Virgin Mary. The University of Minho was founded in Braga in 1973.
Large cattle fairs are held annually in June and September.