Braga

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.

Bracara Augusta Roman Ruins (Braga)
The city of Bracara Augusta was founded by the Emperor August, between the 3rd year BC and the 4th AC, becoming the capital of Gallaecia on the 3rd century.
On the 4th century, after the conversion to the Christianity, Bracara Augusta becomes the headquarters of the bishopric. After that, the Visigoth and the Arabs occupied it.

Bom Jesus do Monte Sanctuary (Braga)
This Sanctuary is considered one of the most beautiful in all Portugal. The masterpiece of Carlos Amarante evokes the love to God and is surrounded by magnificent gardens. To arrive there you have two options: or you decide to take the elevator, or you go up the 17 extraordinary flight of stairs, that diverge and converge side to side with really impressive flowerpots, statues and fountains.
The chapels that go side by side with the yard evoke the biblical subjects of the Assumption, of the Apparition of Madalena and Emaús Encounter, separated by fountains dedicated to the four evangelists: S. Marcos, S. Lucas, S. João and S. Mateus.

Santa Cruz Church (Braga)
Built on the 18th century, the Santa Cruz church fits on the Baroque mannerist style. On the interior, the highlight is the golden carve, the high nave and the organ and the pulpits.

See Cathedral (Braga)
Inside the city of Braga, right in the middle of the Historic Centre, you can find the See Cathedral and its treasure, true relics. This amazing monument, built under the gothic, renaissance and baroque styles, was founded in 1070, and its highlight is the ornamented roof, conceived by João de Castilho, the architect that designed the Jerónimos Monastery in Lisbon.
Another fascinating spot in this cathedral is located behind the main altar: the 12 ceramic panels, conceived by the professor Álvaro Rocha.

Santa Bárbara’s Garden (Braga)
The Santa Bárbara’s Garden is one of the most beautiful in all Portugal. Located behind the See Cathedral, brings together flowers and colours in an almost Divine result.

Nossa Senhora da Oliveira Church (Guimarães)
This church was rebuilt under the commands of D. João I, by the lately 14th century, that made a vote to the Virgin of Oliveira when he won the Aljubarrota battle. There are two panels over the lecture hall and on the Holy Sacrament chapel there’s a silver altar.

Castle (Guimarães)
The primitive castle was raised around the 10th century, by order of the Mumadona countess, to defend the people and her monastery from the Moor attacks.
The castle was amplified by the count D. Henrique, on the 12th century, and the walls of Guimarães were connected to the walls of the castle.

Penha’s Cable Car (Guimarães)
From the Penha hill visitors can enjoy excellent panoramic views. To get there, you can take the cable car, opened since 1995, composed by 40 cabins with 6 seats each. This transportation service not only offers an alternative to the road system, but also gives the passenger unforgettable and fascinating moments.