Being one of the oldest cities in the country, with more than 2000 years, Braga perfectly combines the traditional and the modern, providing a journey through the history and architecture of various times. In this city in northern Portugal, the heart of the Minho region, it is possible to appreciate remnants from the Roman era (when it was called Bracara Augusta, in honor of Emperor Augustus). You can also visit the first Cathedral in the country, which was built in the 12th century. Or get to know the municipal stadium of Braga, designed by Eduardo Souto Moura, an architect awarded the Pritzker Prize in 2011. A must-see on the route of religious tourism – it is unmissable to climb to Bom Jesus do Monte on foot, for the more courageous, or by traveling on the picturesque funicular from 1882, the first in the Iberian Peninsula – Braga is famous for its many churches and sanctuaries, for sacred art, for Baroque inspiration, and for its historic center.
Animated throughout the year, the city retains a youthful and vibrant spirit, thanks to the student environment, the university hub, and the technological buzz, with the Iberian Laboratory of Nanotechnology located here. Not to mention the cultural richness, an endless number of annual events, and the local cuisine, highlighting the Frigideiras, Bacalhau à Braga, Sarrabulho porridge, roast kid, and Pudim Abade de Priscos or the irresistible Fidalguinhos.Dedicated to the history of convents and the foundation of Portugal, this unit incorporates the Collection concept, which is distinguished by its quality service. The Vila Galé Collection Braga is born from the rehabilitation of the old hospital of São Marcos, a property of public interest, dating back to 1508, built on the site where there was a chapel dedicated to Saint Mark, a hostelry, and a Templar convent. Respecting the historical and architectural aspects, this hotel maintains the existing structure and recovers some elements such as the original vaulted ceilings.
