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jhhjhgBraga

 

Braga

   

Located in Northwest Portugal, the city of Braga is often referred to as the Portuguese Rome, due to the exquisite architecture of its numerous churches. Three well known Sanctuaries, The Bom Jesus do Monte, The Sameiro, and The Santa Marta da Falperra are all resplendent examples of the beauty that awaits you in Braga. Each of these famous churches are with in walking distance of the city center.  The Bom Jesus do Monte is especially noted for its unique architectural features including its long baroque stairway designed in 1727 by the Archbishop of Braga and a collection of life sized terra cotta figures that represent the stages in Christ’s journey to His crucifixion.  At Easter, the city plays host to several religious processions and Holy Week Festivals.

While Braga has a rich religious history not every attraction in the city is rooted in its past.  In recent years the city has undergone vast modernization and is quickly becoming the regions commercial and fashion center.  Filled with eclectic bars, tantalizing restaurants and trendy clubs, Braga offers entertainment for every taste and lifestyle.  The city even boasts an amusement park, The Barcalandia Theme Park, that both kids and adults will thoroughly enjoy visiting.  Other attractions of note include the numerous historic mansions that are scattered throughout the city, many of which house museums and acclaimed collections of fine art.

Sports enthusiasts might enjoy visiting the Sporting Clube de Braga, host to Euro 2004, the European Football Championships, and home to the local outstanding football team.  The stadium seats 30,000 guests and is nestled in the midst of a breathtaking local.  Carved out of the granite of Monte Castro, the stadium affords visitors a magnificent view of the valley beyond the stadium.  Designed by distinguished Portuguese architect Eduardo Souto de Moura, the uniquely crafted stadium is worth touring, even if you aren’t able to watch an actual game.

A summer time visit to Braga can include participation in the cities two whimsical June festivals, the Festas de São João and the Festival of Gigantones.  Visitors will enjoy participating in the frolicsome traditional activities such as dancing through the streets of the city or watching the antics of giant carnival figures ambling down the roadways.

Braga is within easy distance to the picturesque resort city of Viana do Castelo, which is located on the banks of the River Lima.  Buses and trains run frequently between the two cities, making a day at the shore an easy part of your visit to Braga.The enchanting city of Braga is a glowing gem in the crown that is Portugal.  The city provides visitors with breathtaking sites, exciting activities, and an enlightening look into the religious history of this fascinating nation.

 


 

 

Portugal: travel around and find out the essence of the Land!