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About Braga
Braga, the “Portuguese Rome,” is regarded as the religious center of Portugal and boasts a rich heritage, outstanding tourist sites, and exceptional cuisine.
Located in Portugal’s northwest, Braga is the largest city of the Minho province and Portugal’s third largest city. It is the seat of the archbishop and is widely regarded as the religious center of Portugal. In fact, with over 300 churches, Braga has been dubbed the “Portuguese Rome!” In addition to its rich heritage, the city boasts outstanding tourist sites, exceptional cuisine, a vibrant university, idyllic weather, and exciting festivals.
Braga had been a Roman colony - a military and administrative center and an important crossroads in the province of Lusitania. The Visigoths took control of the city in the 6th century, and the Moors ruled in the 8th century. In the 12th century, Braga became the seat of Portugal’s archbishops, and, in the16th century, under the auspices of Archbishop Diego de Sousa, a construction boom began. A number of impressive buildings were built, and important works of art were commissioned.
Many of these historic sites remain today. The impressive Braga Cathedral (the Se), the oldest surviving church in Portugal is, in fact, older than the country and blends Gothic, Renaissance, and Manueline styles. The Igreja de Nossa Senhora da Oliveira is a castle-like church, and the Bom Jesus do Monte, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is a glorious 18th century neoclassical church and Christian pilgrimage site with a remarkable 17-flight baroque staircase which zigzags up to the entry. The 12th century Church of Sao Pedro has magnificent Azulea tiles depicting religious scenes, while the church of Sao Geraldo is known for its beautiful mural of the Holy Virgin.
The Arco da Porta Nova (Arch of the New Gate), dating back to the 16th century as a triumphal arch, marks the official entrance into the old city of Braga. The arch was reconstructed in the 18th century in its current baroque design.
Jardim de Santa Barbara (the Santa Barbara Garden) is located in the middle of the city. It is a beautiful garden, lush with colorful flowers and greenery alongside statues and the ruins of a medieval palace. Next to the garden is the Archbishop’s Palace of Braga from the 14th-18th centuries which is used today as an archive and library.
The Museum of Biscaínhos is located in a beautiful 16th century residential palace and houses the Museum of Art and Ethnography, along with exhibits of furniture, European and Oriental porcelain, glassware, and clocks.
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Looking for some interesting things to do in Braga? Here are some recommended attractions and sights for you.
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Attractions in Braga
- Biscainhos Museum, Braga
- Braga Cathedral
- Sanctuary of Our Lady of Sameiro, Braga
- Chapel of Sao Frutuoso, Braga
- Historic Center, Braga
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The Spirit of Braga: From the Porta Nova Arch to the Palace of Raio
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