De Porto: Visite Privée D’une Journée Au Minho Historique

The Minho region, where the cities of Guimarães and Braga are located, owes its recognition, importance and name to the Minho River, one of the four largest rivers in Portugal. Also, we can’t ignore the fact that it was in this location that the Portuguese County was created.

Known as the birthplace of the nation, Guimarães is the city where the Portuguese origins are most felt. Founded in the 9th century by Vímara Peres, as Vimaranes, this was one of the most important cities for the independence of the country.

Here we find the Castle where the first king of Portugal D. Afonso Henriques grew up. Classified by UNESCO as World Cultural Heritage, its historic center is composed of medieval lanes and buildings, protected by what remains of its Wall.

It is also in Guimarães that we find the first Palace of the Dukes of Bragança, as well as one of the oldest Catholic churches in Portugal, the Nossa Senhora da Oliveira Church, which dates back to the 10th century, being therefore previous to the formation of the kingdom, implanted right at the heart of the historical center.

One of the oldest cities of Portugal, Braga goes back to the Roman occupation of the Iberian Peninsula, founded in 16 BC. Today it is known for its abundance of religious buildings, from churches to convents, monasteries and the famous Braga Cathedral, the oldest in the country.

Equally important is the Sanctuary of Bom Jesus do Monte, also known as Bom Jesus de Braga. Considered one of the most beautiful centers of devotion and pilgrimage of Portugal it is characterized by its Church dedicated to the Good Jesus, as well as its Stairs, full of fountains, gardens and important symbolism, all of which fits in a superb natural landscape.

In addition to the vast religious heritage, what stands out in Braga is its historical center, one of the main landmarks of the Baroque style in Europe, full of alleys and narrow streets that tell a unique history from the Roman Empire and also plenty of features of the Medieval Period, culminating in the present times.

Braga isn’t just about the past, it continues to make history. In 2012 Braga was nominated the European Youth Capital, holding a very competitive position in the fields of scientific research and sports, offering a life style and quality difficult to match.