Braga is a city and municipality, the capital of the northwestern Braga District and the historic Minho region. With a population of 201,583 (as of 2023), Braga is the seventh-largest municipality in Portugal by population. Braga is the central city of the Greater Minho Metropolitan Area (Grande Área Metropolitana do Minho), which has a population of over 800,000. The city is home to Braga Railway Station.
*Braga is one of the oldest cities in Portugal, with a history dating back to Roman times, when it was known as Bracara Augusta. The city played an important role as an administrative and commercial center during the Roman Empire. In the Middle Ages, Braga became the seat of archbishops, giving it a special religious significance. To this day, the city is called the “Rome of Portugal” due to its rich ecclesiastical history and numerous religious monuments. Bom Jesus do Monte, this is one of the most important pilgrimage sites in Portugal. The sanctuary is famous for its Baroque staircase, which symbolizes the spiritual journey upwards towards God. The views from the top are breathtaking and offer a panoramic view of Braga. Archbishop’s Palace (Palácio dos Biscainhos): Built in the 17th century, this palace is a prime example of Baroque architecture and now houses a museum displaying rich interiors and art collections.
*The D. Diogo de Sousa Archaeological Museum, located in Braga, Portugal, houses a collection of artifacts from archaeological excavations in the region, spanning the Paleolithic to the Middle Ages. Founded in 1918, it moved in 2007 to a new building in the center of the former Roman city of Bracara Augusta.
*The Church of Santa Cruz (Igreja de Santa Cruz) is a historic 17th-century church in Braga, Portugal, located in the city center. Characterized by Baroque-Mannerist architecture, with an exterior façade contrasting with the ornate interior, it is a significant Braga landmark of cultural and religious significance.
*Chapel of Our Lady of the Torre, built on the ruins of an ancient tower, this chapel is a place from which you can admire a beautiful view of the city.
*Braga is a city rich in cultural tradition. Numerous festivals and events take place here, attracting tourists from around the world. Among them, the Semana Santa festival is one of the most important religious events in Portugal, attracting crowds of pilgrims and tourists. Processions, reenactments of biblical scenes, and religious ceremonies give the city a unique character during this period.
*Night of Museums: Braga’s museums open their doors to visitors until late at night, offering special exhibitions and attractions. The Gualteriana Festival, held in July, honors St. Walter, the city’s patron saint. The program includes parades, concerts, and fireworks displays.
*Braga is easily accessible to both domestic and international tourists. Braga is a city that combines rich history, magnificent monuments, and a vibrant culture. A place where tradition meets modernity, every visitor will find something to enjoy. Whether you’re interested in history, architecture, or simply want to experience the true spirit of Portugal.
*Practical tips:
- Getting there: The city has good rail and bus connections to other parts of Portugal, and the nearest airport is in Porto, about 50 km from Braga.
- Accommodation: Braga offers a wide range of accommodations, from luxury hotels to cozy guesthouses and hostels. It’s worth booking in advance, especially during the tourist season.
- Gastronomy: In Braga, you can enjoy traditional Portuguese cuisine, including specialties like bacalhau (cod) and caldo verde (cabbage soup). Local restaurants often also serve regional dishes typical of northern Portugal.
- Weather: Braga’s climate is temperate, with warm summers and mild winters. The best times to visit are spring and autumn, when temperatures are pleasant and the city is bustling with life.
