By PAULO SILVESTRE [email protected]
In this travel feature, Paulo Silvestre takes readers on a guided tour of the best places to visit in Portugal. Paulo provides inside information and useful tips to assist you in planning relaxing trips and enjoyable days out. You’ll discover the best of Portugal and enjoy celebrating its unique culture! Paulo holds a degree in Media Studies and his hobbies include playing in a band.
Located in the North of Portugal, Braga is considered one of the most religious cities in the country because of the great number of churches and sanctuaries. It used to be one of the most significant catholic cities in Europe.
To best explore the city, it is better that you do it on foot, discovering the stunning architecture of Baroque buildings and more than 30 churches.
The most remarkable monument to visit is Bom Jesus do Monte Sanctuary, considered one of the most stunning in all of Portugal. This work of art evokes the love of God and is surrounded by outstanding gardens. To get there you can choose between two options: take the elevator or go up 17 extraordinary flights of stairs, which converge side by side with extraordinary flowerpots, statues and fountains. The chapels that go side by side with the enclosure bring to mind the biblical subjects of the Assumption, of the apparition of Madalena and the Emaús, all this is split by fountains devoted to the four evangelists, S. Marcos, S. Lucas, S. João and S. Mateus.
 Sé Catedral |
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Mesmerising
In the middle of the historic centre, you can find the Sé Catedral and its’ wealth. This astounding tombstone, built under the gothic, renaissance and baroque styles, was set up in 1070, and the best part is its’ adorned roof, created by João de Castilho, the architect that designed Mosteiro dos Jerónimos in Lisbon. An extra mesmerising spot in this cathedral is behind the main altar, where there are 13 ceramic panels created by Professor Álvaro Rocha.
Another interesting monument to see is the Santa Cruz church, built in the 18th century, in the Baroque style.
The best time to visit the city of Braga is at Easter when the population enacts the events of the Holy week which comprises the crucifixion of Christ and his burial – a very scenic experience not to be missed.
Paulo can be contacted by emailing [email protected]
