You are here > Places to See > Green Coast > Braga district

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.