Braga,Portugal
If you are looking for a romantic destination that feels like a step back in time, Braga is a must-visit place in 21st century. This Portuguese city is 3,000 years old & one of the oldest cities in the country.
The city is blessed with gorgeous gardens and splendid religious grandeur apart from the history. Approximately 137,000 people live in this city home. And it have an old-school city vibe.
There is no doubt that Braga has close ties to the origins of the country. The nearby town of Guimarãeso it is where the first king of Portugal was born. Further, the city is also known to be the religious center of the country.
Braga serves as an extraordinary showcase of architecture, presenting granite structures that have their origins back to 560 AD and beautiful sanctuaries from the 18th century.
Top Historical and Cultural Sites
Bom Jesus do Monte (Good Jesus of the Mountain)
Located outside the city center, it is possibly Portugal’s most recognized monument. The existing church was built in 1784, but its origin goes back to 1720.
When you come here, it feels like a journey of sorts. You will have to walk the architectural path as there is no taxi or bus that will take you.
The large Baroque staircase is worthwhile to take in from top to bottom. But ensure that you do not stop there. When you enter the church, you will experience its rich cultural and spiritual value.
Santa Barbara Garden (Jardim de Santa Bárbara)
Braga is often labelled a ‘postcard town’ as it looks straight out of a postcard. There isn’t a more apt demonstrator for this than the Santa Barbara Garden.
It is a great public gardens space where the sparkling flowers bloom in manicured way against the backdrop of the Archbishop’s Palace. It's the perfect spot for a peaceful stroll.
The Museum of Sacred Art & Museum Pio XII
For art and history lovers, these two museums are essential:
The house was old but in 1930, it the house was massively enlarged and it opened in 2007. It now contains hundreds of treasure showing the city’s ancient story of religion evolution.
The museum has in its collections an array of jewellery from the ancient times weaving textiles and intricate sculptures.
Capela de São Frutuoso de Montélios
The Old Cathedral of Coimbra was mostly built with granite and is one of Portugal’s rare architectural treasures. Certain areas of the site can be traced back to 560 AD. The unusual shape of the location given feeling to explore the earliest legacy of the Iberian Peninsula.
Travel Recommendations and Tips
To learn a great deal on Braga’s Roman roots, don’t miss the Idol Fountain. Nearby, there is an explanation center which aims via video to explain to visitors the function of the monuments in this area.
Situated within the borders of Peneda-Gerês National Park, Lindoso is famous for its stone granaries and historic castle. If additional time, do plan to enjoy a day or two heading North to this rugged, beautiful terrain.
The city is usually safe but it tends to be busy during peak season. Because the city is old, there are some parts that have a narrow road and pathway. This can make it tricky to navigate through by foot or on vehicle. It is recommended to have a map or travel guide.
You will need walking shoes to visit the city center, as Bom Jesus does require some hiking up the steps to visit.
Braga, a city that really honors its history. Walking through the cathedrals of granite and resting in the flower gardens, you are walking through centuries of Portuguese history. Have you been to any cities in Portugal? Mention your favorite spots in the comments.
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