Braga Travel Guide, Portugal

The Romans conquered the city of Braga in 250 BC and they named it Bracara Augusta, which later become the capital of the newly founded province Gallaecia. The city covers the area from the river of Cavado to the river Este. Before you ever visit the city, take a look at some important pointers via Braga Travel Guide.

Braga Travel Guide – Religion, Economy and Demographics

The city of Braga is famous as the “Portuguese Rome” because it focuses mainly on religious architecture. This city in the more urbanized part of Portugal is the seat for trade and business in the region. It is considered as one of the most beautiful municipalities of Portugal.

The city of Braga is one of the municipalities in northwestern Portugal and one of the main urban areas in the country. It is the capital of the district of Braga and the oldest archdiocese. Braga is the seventh largest municipality in Portugal in terms of its people and parishes. As of 2007, the city had a total population of 175,063 and with a total of 62 parishes. The city is also the center of the Greater Metropolitan Area of Minho. Some believe that the population in the city is the most religious; some say they are the most conventional, and some consider them the most fanatic.

Braga Travel Guide – Churches and Other Attractions

Braga is known as the Rome of Portugal. Churches with fine style of architecture from the 17th to mid-18th century are located in its center. These churches are characterized by curvilinear shapes and simple but attractive decorations with dramatic effects. One can identify who’s in charge of the city by hearing the ringing of bells from the baroque churches. The conversion of the Visigoths into Christians in 16th century was the start of Braga as a center of religious power.

Braga Cathedral is the oldest in Portugal. It was built in the 12th century when Portugal was under the rule of the Moors. Bom Jesus do Monte, the holy place in the hillside is the most attractive sight in the city. Aside from the cathedrals and sanctuary in the city, there are also other things that add to the greatness of the city.

Visiting Braga is not all about holiness but also enjoyment and happiness. There is a wide range of lively cafés along the pedestrian streets of the compact center. The students from the Universidade do Minho and some of the worldly concerns along the streets add much to its youthfulness.

Braga Travel Guide should serve as your key to appreciating and learning about the culture and history of the community and its people. It is indeed one of the flourishing cities in Portugal not only in terms of tourism but when it comes to economic development. You may also read about Lisbon Travel Guide and Lisbon Nightlife to get enough background about the country.