Braga, Portugal | A Hidden Gem of Charm and Wonder

| A hidden gem of charm and wonder. Braga in Portugal truly amazed me with its beauty! Today, I’ll share a super-detailed travel guide for Braga, especially focusing on three must-visit attractions: Guimarães Castle, Braga Cathedral, and the Bom Jesus do Monte Sanctuary 😍. 🏰 Guimarães Castle History & Features: Built in the 10th century, Guimarães Castle is one of Portugal’s oldest castles and the birthplace of the country’s first king. It witnessed pivotal moments in Portugal’s history and is often called the "Cradle of the Portuguese Nation." The castle has a shield-like layout, surrounded by towers, with the central keep standing 27 meters tall, constructed from granite—truly magnificent. Travel Tips: Stroll through the castle to admire its ancient walls, towers, and fortifications, soaking in the weight of history. Inside, you’ll find exhibits showcasing artifacts like household items and weapons from the era, offering deeper insights. From the castle’s heights, enjoy panoramic views of Guimarães’ old town, where red-roofed, white-walled buildings create a picturesque scene. 🏰 Braga Cathedral History & Features: Built in the 12th century, Braga Cathedral is Portugal’s first cathedral, blending Romanesque, Gothic, and Baroque architectural styles. Highlights include the Romanesque Sun Gate, the main portal, the apse of the St. Amaro Cloister, a Manueline-style baptismal font, and niches outside the main chapel. The interior’s gilded wood carvings are exquisite. Travel Tips: Explore the cathedral’s interior to admire its stunning frescoes, sculptures, and religious artifacts, immersing yourself in its spiritual ambiance. Don’t miss the Treasury Museum, home to historically significant relics like the cross used in Brazil’s first Mass. The square outside the cathedral is also perfect for photos, capturing its grandeur. 🏰 Bom Jesus do Monte Sanctuary History & Features: Perched on the slopes of Mount Espinho overlooking Braga, this sanctuary was inscribed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2019. Its architecture, shaped over 600 years, is primarily Baroque, featuring a 116-meter zigzagging staircase divided into the "Stairway of the Five Senses" and the "Stairway of the Virtues," adorned with sculptures and fountains to guide spiritual reflection. Travel Tips: Hike up the staircase to appreciate the Baroque artistry of the sculptures and fountains, or take a taxi to the top and walk down for an easier route. At the summit, visit the viewpoint for breathtaking panoramas of Braga, where red roofs and white walls blend with lush fields—absolutely stunning.