We forego the walking due to the weather and head inland to Braga, a city found east of Viana do Castelo. Even though Braga is the third largest city of Portugal, it does not have a hectic pace or crowded atmosphere, and its an easy city to explore on foot.
We arrive and are met by the Arco da Porta Nova – the eastern Braga city gate.
Just down the road is where we are staying, a great place for exploring the town.
Praça da República is the main square in Braga. It is a garden type square with lovely buildings, fountains and churches lining the square.
You haven’t seen Braga until you’ve visited the Santuario de Bom Jesus do Monte, the church that towers over Braga and the local countryside. With its incredible Baroque stairway with its 600 or so steps that zigzag to the top.
We leave Braga for another jewel of a town – Guimaraes, heralded as the birthplace of Portugal. It’s a great little town to explore with lots of history and wonderful ‘nooks and crannys’ to explore.
The Guimaraes castle dates back to the 11th century and was built to defend the monastery from attacks by Moors and Norsemen.
Wandering around the old streets and having a Vinho Verde at one of the local cafes in one of the many squares. Vinho Verde which means ‘green wine’ originates in the Minho province – which is where we are now. It’s generally young wine, with wine being released three to six months after the grapes are harvested. It’s not a taste for everyone, being slightly fizzy.
A wonderful time, definitely worth a visit!! Now we head back to Porto to meet up with Nick and Irene our friends from the Mercy Ship!
Hi guys still
Following your adventures.
I can’t wait for the book to come out
Stay safe
Rgds Brian
Magnificent churches They can be poorer than churchmice but the churches will be extravagant The narrow streets and buildings along there remind me of Old Quebed City,Take care Carol
Yes, so beautiful! No surprise with the number of churches here. As the saying goes, “to be Portuguese is to be Catholic,” as approximately 97 percent of the population considers itself Roman Catholic–the highest percentage in Western Europe.
Fabulous photos again Kathy. That church is absolutely stunning. Travel well, take care. Looking forward to seeing you again before tooooo long. Love Mel n Ian