Braga, a city in northwestern Portugal, is the capital of the district of Braga, the oldest archdiocese and one of the major cities of the country.

Attractions

The city of Braga and surrounding region have many historical monuments. In the city centre are:

• Idol's Fountain (Fonte do Ídolo, 1st century AD): Roman fountain dedicated to an indigenous god, Tongoenabiagus. Bears reliefs and inscriptions.
• Braga Cathedral (Sé de Braga, 12th-18th centuries): The most important historical monument of the city. Rich mix of architectural and artistic styles.
• Tower of Braga Castle (14th century): Gothic tower left from the ancient castle of the city.
• Coimbras Chapel (Capela dos Coimbras, early 16th century): Richly decorated chapel in renaissance and manueline styles.
• Archbishop's Palace (14th-18th centuries): Gothic, mannerist and baroque wings. Houses the Library of the city.
• New city Gate (Arco da Porta Nova, 18th century): Beautiful baroque-style city gate that substituted an earlier Gothic gate.
• Municipal Palace (18th century): Baroque building.
• Palácio do Raio (18th century): Outstanding baroque-roccoco urban palace with richly decorated façade.

Outside the city centre are:

• Bom Jesus do Monte Sanctuary (18th-early 19th century): Neoclassic church with a magnificent baroque stairway. Located in the city surroundings.
• Falperra Church (18th century): Good example of baroque architecture with pentagonal floorplan and roccoco façade.
• Monastery of Tibães (17th-18th centuries): Benedictine monastery of great artistic importance in Portugal. Notable inner gilt work.
• Sameiro Sanctuary (19th-20th centuries): Important pilgrimage centre dedicated to the Virgin Mary.