Braga: Portugal's Spiritual Heart

Braga, often called the "Portuguese Rome," is a city steeped in religious significance and history. It's one of Portugal's oldest cities, with roots tracing back to Celtic Bracari and Roman settlers. As the seat of Portugal's archbishops since the 12th century, Braga is a treasure trove of ecclesiastical architecture, with an abundance of churches, chapels, and monasteries. The city's devout nature is showcased during the vibrant Semana Santa (Holy Week) festivities, one of Portugal's most elaborate religious celebrations. Braga's old town is adorned with grand 18th-century granite mansions, some of which now serve as museums, adding to the city's cultural allure.

See also: Where to Stay in Braga

1. Sé (Cathedral)

The Sé, Braga's cathedral, began construction in 1070 and showcases a mix of architectural styles due to centuries of additions. Notable features include the ornate Manueline towers, the 15th-century galilee, and the tombs of significant historical figures like Henry of Burgundy and Dona Teresa. The upper choir and Baroque organ cases are also impressive.

Address: Rua Dom Paio Mendes, Braga

2. Museu de Arte Sacra (Museum of Sacred Art)

Housed in the cathedral's Treasury, this museum boasts a collection of religious art, including statues, carvings, and azulejo tiles. It's accessible via the cloister and offers a glimpse into the city's religious heritage.

Address: Rua Dom Paio Mendes, Braga

3. Antigo Paço Episcopal

The former archbishop's palace, now housing university offices and a library, is a historical landmark with a beautiful garden and azulejo-lined stairway.

Address: Praça Municipal, Braga

4. Bom Jesus do Monte

This stunning sanctuary is known for its Baroque stairway, chapels depicting the Stations of the Cross, and panoramic views from the top, accessible by foot or funicular.

Location: 6 kilometers east of Braga

5. Museu dos Biscainhos (Museu Etnográfico e Artístico)

Set in a nobleman's mansion, this museum displays a variety of artifacts, including Roman relics and Portuguese furniture, showcasing the region's history and culture.

Address: Rua dos Biscainhos, Braga

6. Museu de Arqueologia Dom Diogo de Sousa (Dom Diogo de Sousa Archaeology Museum)

This museum, dedicated to regional archaeological research, presents artifacts from the Palaeolithic to the Suevi-Visigoth era, along with modern amenities like a café and gift shop.

Address: Rua dos Bombeiros Voluntários, Braga

7. Museu Pio XII (Pio XII Museum)

The Pio XII Museum offers archaeological exhibits, medieval artifacts, and works by the 20th-century artist Henrique Medina de Barros. It also provides access to the Nossa Senhora da Torre with panoramic city views.

Address: Largo de Santiago 47, Braga

8. Fonte do Ídolo (Idol Fountain)

This Roman monument, possibly from the 1st century BC, features inscriptions and sculptures, hinting at a larger temple complex in its past.

Address: Rua do Raio, Braga

9. Semana Santa

Braga's Holy Week is a deeply religious and traditional event, marked by processions and ceremonies, particularly the silent Ecce Homo parade on Maundy Thursday.

Location: Braga Old Town

Official site: http://www.semanasantabraga.com

10. Capela São Frutuoso de Montélios

This chapel is a rare example of pre-Romanesque architecture in Portugal, with a mix of Visigoth and Lombard influences, and houses the sarcophagus of São Frutuoso.

Address: Avenida São Frutuoso, São Jerónimo Real

Day Trips from Braga

11. Peneda-Gerês National Park

A short drive from Braga, this park offers stunning natural landscapes, wildlife, and outdoor activities, with several entrances and a head office in Braga for visitor information.

12. Caldas do Gerês

This spa town in the national park is known for its mineral waters, therapeutic spa, and scenic park, offering relaxation and outdoor activities.

Location: Peneda-Gerês National Park, Minho

13. Lindoso

Lindoso is famous for its castle ruins and a remarkable collection of stone granaries known as espigueiros.

14. Peneda

The village of Peneda is home to the Sanctuário da Nossa Senhora de Peneda, a pilgrimage site with a backdrop of the Penameda summit.

15. Ponte da Barca

This market town is known for its historic bridge over the River Lima and serves as a gateway to the Peneda-Gerês National Park.

Location: 30 kilometers north of Braga

16. Bravães

Bravães is celebrated for its 13th-century Igreja de São Salvador, adorned with exquisite Romanesque carvings.

Location: 5 kilometers west of Ponte da Barca

17. Arcos de Valdevez

Arcos de Valdevez is a charming market town near the national park, with notable Baroque and Manueline architecture.

Location: 5 kilometer north of Ponte da Barca

18. Ponte de Lima

Ponte de Lima is a picturesque town with a Roman bridge, a church housing a museum of sacred art, and a historic market.

Location: 15 kilometers west of Bravães

Where to Stay in Braga for Sightseeing

• Melia Braga Hotel & Spa: luxury hotel with contemporary design, pools, and spa.
• Villa Garden Braga: 4-star villa with modern rooms, outdoor pool, and breakfast.
• Mercure Braga Centro: mid-range hotel near old town with rooftop pool and gym.
• Ibis Braga: budget-friendly, centrally located hotel with multilingual staff.

Tips and Tours: How to Make the Most of Your Visit to Braga

• Consider a guided day trip to Peneda-Gerês National Park from Braga, including hikes, lunch, and visits to scenic spots.