Bragança: The Complete Guide

Situated in the far northeast of Portugal, Bragança is a city whose old castle still maintains a mediaeval urban core within its walls.

The town of Bragança, situated in the northeastern part of Portugal, was once under the protection of the House of Bragança, who governed Portugal from 1640 until the beginning of the 20th century. The town is located on a hilltop and is surrounded by a well-preserved fortified wall, making it the most well-maintained medieval town in Portugal. The wall overlooks the modern town from a height of 600 meters (1,968 feet) above sea level in the Serra da Nogueira region.

History of Bragança

arly History of Bragança

Bragança, located in the northeastern region of Portugal, has ancient origins dating back to pre-Roman times. Archaeological evidence suggests that the area was inhabited by the Zoelae, a Celtic tribe. The town’s strategic location made it an important settlement for trade and defense.

Roman and Visigothic Periods in Bragança

During the Roman era, Bragança became part of the Roman province of Lusitania. The Romans constructed roads and fortifications, contributing to the town’s development. After the fall of the Roman Empire, Bragança was occupied by the Visigoths, who maintained its importance as a regional center.

Bragança During the Moorish Occupation

In the 8th century, Bragança fell under Moorish control following the Islamic conquest of the Iberian Peninsula. The Moors fortified the town further and integrated it into their administrative and military networks. Bragança remained under Moorish rule until the Christian Reconquista.

The Reconquista and the Formation of the Bragança House

The town was reconquered by Christian forces in the 11th century. In 1187, King Sancho I of Portugal granted Bragança a charter, recognizing its importance and encouraging settlement. The House of Bragança, one of Portugal’s most influential noble families, traces its origins to this period. The family played a crucial role in Portuguese history, eventually ascending to the throne in 1640.

Medieval and Renaissance Bragança

During the medieval period, Bragança flourished as a regional hub. The construction of the Castle of Bragança in the 12th century marked the town’s growing significance. The castle, with its imposing keep and defensive walls, became a symbol of the town’s strength. In the Renaissance era, Bragança continued to prosper, with the establishment of religious and civic buildings that enriched its cultural heritage.

Bragança in the Modern Era

The 17th and 18th centuries saw Bragança playing a pivotal role in Portuguese politics and military affairs. The town supported the Bragança dynasty’s claim to the throne and was a stronghold during various conflicts, including the Restoration War against Spanish rule. In the 19th century, Bragança faced challenges during the Peninsular War and subsequent civil conflicts but managed to retain its strategic importance.

Bragança Today

Today, Bragança is a vibrant town that celebrates its rich history and cultural heritage. The well-preserved medieval castle, historic churches, and charming old town attract visitors from around the world. The town is also known for its traditional festivals, local cuisine, and beautiful natural surroundings, making it a unique and attractive destination in Portugal.

Visiting Bragança for the first time and wondering what are the top places to see in the city? In this complete guide, I share the best things to do in Bragança on the first visit. To help you plan your trip, I have also included an interactive map and practical tips for visiting!

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This complete guide to Bragança not only tells you about the very best sights and tourist attractions for first-time visitors to the city but also provide insights into a few of our personal favorite things to do.

This is a practical guide to visiting the best places to see in Bragança and is filled with tips and info that should answer all your questions!

Sé Velha de Bragança

CC BY-SA 2.5 / Dantadd

The Sé Velha de Bragança, also known as Colégio do Santo Nome de Jesus, Catedral de Bragança, and Igreja Paroquial de São João Baptista, is a former convent located in the Sé, Santa Maria e Meixedo parish of Bragança municipality in Portugal. Today, part of its facilities are used as the Bragança Cultural Center and Bragança Music Conservatory. Originally constructed…

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Location: Igreja de São João Baptista (antiga Sé de Bragança), Rua Alexandre Herculano, Bragança, Portugal | Distance: 0.0km

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Visiting Sé Velha de Bragança

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Centro de Arte Contemporânea Graça Morais

All Rights Reserved / www.visitportugal.com

The Graça Morais Contemporary Art Centre, designed by the renowned Portuguese architect Souto Moura who was awarded the Pritzker Prize in 2011, opened its doors in 2008. The centre boasts an extensive program of temporary exhibitions featuring acclaimed national and international artists, alongside collections of contemporary art resulting from partnerships and co-productions with esteemed institutions worldwide. In addition to its…

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Location: Centro de Arte Contemporânea Graça Morais, Rua Abílio Beça, Bragança, Portugal | Hours: Tuesday to Sunday: 10:00 am - 6:30 pm. Closed weekly on Monday.| Price: €2.29 per person | Website | Distance: 0.1km

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Visiting Centro de Arte Contemporânea Graça Morais

Explore Bragança yourself with our self-guided walking tour!

Museu do Abade de Baçal

CC BY-SA 4.0 / Reis Quarteu

The former Episcopal Palace, built in the 18th century and once the official residence of bishops for half a year, was transformed into the Abade de Baçal Museum in 1915. The museum is named in honour of father Francisco Manuel Alves (1865-1948), also known as Abbot of Baçal, who had a passion for the history and art of the region…

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Location: Museu do Abade de Baçal, Rua Abílio Beça, Bragança, Portugal | Hours: 9h30 a.m. - 12:30 p.m. | 2:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. Closed: Mondays, 1 January, Easter Sunday, 1 May, 25 December. | Website | Distance: 0.3km

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Visiting Museu do Abade de Baçal

Igreja de São Vicente (Bragança)

CC BY-SA 3.0 / GFreihalter

The Church of São Vicente, whose construction dates back to the 13th century, is Romanesque in style. It has undergone several restorations, one in the 14th century and the last in the 17th century when it was completely rebuilt, due to a partial collapse of the church, maintaining the Romanesque structure, although with some aesthetic variations such as the addition…

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Location: Igreja de São Vicente, Rua Combatentes da Grande Guerra, Bragança, Portugal | Distance: 0.4km

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Visiting Igreja de São Vicente (Bragança)

Domus Municipalis (Bragança)

CC BY-SA 2.0 / Ángel M. Felicísimo

The Domus Municipalis is a remarkable illustration of Romanesque civil architecture in the country and the highlight of Bragança. It is an irregular pentagon-shaped structure, featuring a vaulted cistern at the base, topped by a vast gallery surrounded by windows, which was identified as the meeting place of the county's notable individuals. The construction date is a subject of debate,…

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Location: Domus Municipalis, Rua da Cidadela, Bragança, Portugal | Distance: 0.7km

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Visiting Domus Municipalis (Bragança)

Igreja de Santa Maria (Bragança)

CC BY-SA 3.0 / jose antonio casano

The Igreja de Santa Maria (Bragança), is the oldest church in Bragança, is located within the walls of the Citadel of Bragança. Its construction dates back to the 14th century, but it underwent modifications for two more centuries, eventually adopting a Baroque style. The façade features an ornate Baroque portal adorned with two Solomonic columns embellished with vine leaves and…

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Location: Igreja de Santa Maria, Rua da Cidadela, Bragança, Portugal | Hours: Open every day from 9:30 am to 5:30 pm. | Website | Distance: 0.7km

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Visiting Igreja de Santa Maria (Bragança)

Castelo de Bragança

Bragança Castle, a prime example of medieval architecture, dates back to 1409 when it was ordered to be built by King João I. Its foundations can be traced back to the reign of the first king of Portugal, Afonso Henriques. With its imposing keep and double wall, it has withstood the test of time remarkably well. The central parade ground,…

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Location: Castelo de Bragança, Rua Dom João V, Bragança, Portugal | Hours: 9:00 a.m. - 12:00 a.m. | 2:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m. Closed on Mondays and national holidays. In August it does not close during lunch time | Distance: 0.7km

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Visiting Castelo de Bragança

Castro de Avelãs Monastery

CC BY-SA 4.0 / Jorge Guerreiro

Located approximately 3 km from Bragança is the town of Castro de Avelãs, where the remaining structure of the Benedictine monastery can be found. The monastery was a prosperous institution that played a crucial role in the settlement of the region and in providing assistance to pilgrims traveling to Santiago de Compostela, from the 12th century until the end of…

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Location: Castro de Avelãs Monastery, Castro de Avelãs, Portugal | Website | Distance: 4.0km

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Visiting Castro de Avelãs Monastery