Braga – The oldest Christian city in the world

The city where past meets the present. History of Braga is over 2000 years old and then again so young that it was pronounced the Capital of Youth in 2012. Most of the monuments are saved until today where will visitors get a feeling that they went few centuries back. Braga is the city that will give you wonderful food for body and soul. People are very warm and ready to share their culture and learn about yours.

2000 YEARS OF HISTORY IN ONE CITY

Braga is one of the oldest cities in Portugal located on the North of the country. It was founded over 2000 years ago by Romans which gave it a name “Bracara Augusta” after the emperor Cesar Augusto. In that time, Braga had very important strategic position, as the meeting point of 5 roads which connected Iberian Peninsula.

When Portugal was founded, in 12^th century, Braga was the only official city. As the seat of Portuguese archbishops, it became the religious capital of the country. In the 14^th century, city got its walls and most of it is preserved today. From 16^th century a lot of funds were directed to building churches and changing the medieval look of the city. Because of that, Braga got its nickname “The Rome of Portugal”.

TRAVEL BACK IN TIME

Braga is the city that will make you fill like you travelled back in 17^th century. Most of the monuments are preserved in original shape and you have a chance to see them together with objects from different parts of town’s development. Below you can see some of the places to visit.

Se Primacial - Cathedral dedicated to Santa Maria de Braga was founded in 11^th century, and changed its look numerous times since then. In the cathedral is possible to see different styles of building, and the most dominated one is Baroque. As the part of the complex is also the Cathedral Treasury Museum which holds religious art pieces, different ages, and personal belongings of archbishops.

Sanctuary Bom Jesus do Monte - Located on the hill next to the city, represents dramatized remake of Golgotha of Jerusalem. Architecture of the sanctuary fits perfectly into wonderful nature that surrounds it. On the top of the stairs you will find church of Bom Jesus which was built in neoclassical style in the end of 18^th century.

Mosteiro São Martinho de Tibães - Magnificent monastery built in 17^th century catches the eye of every visitor. It is consisted of beautiful church, convent and outside enclosure. Travelers that come here create a special bond with monastery and nature.

FOOD FOR SOUL/FOOD IS THE INGREDIENT THAT BINDS US TOGETHER

Rich and delicious cuisine, that follows traditional recipes that are being kept for generations is what you can expect in this city. The way of preparing food is influenced by religion and the assumption of Lent. Hard periods with limited groceries led to creating new and creative ways of preparing food, especially codfish. Portugal is a country that consumes a lot codfish. You can try codfish in the ways you can’t even imagine, like pizza, ravioli, quiche…

One of the signature meals of Braga is “Bacalhau” which includes codfish prepared in special ways. The original recipe was created in mid-20^th century, and since then it conquers the hearts of people.

The deserts and pastries are what makes Braga’s cuisine unique. Abade de Priscos pudding, the traditional cakes and biscuits together with other sweets make the best end of the meal. One of the creamy specialities that you will fall in love with is Pastel de Nata, which is a type of traditional tart pastry.

WANT TO BECOME A LOCAL? IT’S EASY.

People in Braga are family oriented and that’s the foundation of the social structure. They would put their family before everything else if they had to choose. Locals in Braga are very warm and always ready to help and if they cannot help you, they will find someone who can. Once you become friends with them, you will be treated like a family member and then you become local.

On weekends are organized festivals for all ages and preferences where locals go out, have fun and enjoy with friends and family. Don’t worry about offending someone, people know that you are a foreigner so they will forgive you. The worst thing you can do to locals is refuse their invitation or help without good reason.

PITCH&PUTT IN THIS AMAZING CITY

Clube Golfe Braga is proud to be host of OPEN PORTUGAL PITCH&PUTT 2018. The tournament will give participants the chance to have fun while playing Pitch&Putt and explore Braga. Find more about OPEN PORTUGAL PITCH&PUTT 2018 on this link url: http://adso.pt/blog/todos/open-portugal-pitch-putt-2018

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