Braga and Viana do Castelo

The ancient region of Minho is where Portugal came into being – discover its fascinating history and enchanting landscape on our Braga and Viana do Castelo Holiday.

Officially, the northern province of Minho no longer exists – it was consigned to the history books over forty years ago, as borders were redrawn during the tumultuous years which followed Portugal’s Carnation Revolution. For the people who live Minho, it’s still a title in common use. They feel a powerful connection reaching back to Roman times – even as far back as Celtic Minho – and it’s too strong a connection to be severe by anonymous bureaucracy from Lisbon.

Minho’s capital was the city of Braga: the start point for your journey. Its historic quarter is an impressive mix of Moorish, Gothic, Manueline and Baroque architecture representing almost every era of the city’s long and illustrious history whilst the impressive Termas do Alto da Cividade ruins point to ‘Bracara Augusta’s’ high status during the Roman occupation of the Iberian Peninsula.

Modern-day Portugal owes its existence to Dom Joao I and his victory at the Battle of Aljubarrot in 1385 – his royal tunic takes pride of place in the Museu de Alberto Sampaio in Guimaraes.  The Roman Catholic monument at Bom Jesus do Monte is of equal significance to many and has been an important site of pilgrimage for the devout for over four centuries.

Your journey takes you deeper into old Minho – to the old roman towns of Barcelos, Ponta da Barca and Ponta da Lima: considered by many to be the home of Vinho Verde, Portugal’s popular, sparkling young wine.

Following the river Lima to the sea brings you to the port city of Viana do Castelo. Often celebrated for the iconic Santuario do Sagrado Coracao de Jesus, with its dramatic setting high on the Monte de Santa Luzia, Viana is now attracting more curious visitors thanks to its ancient Celtic settlement, medieval landmarks and award-winning contemporary architecture.