Braga is well known as the most important religious centre in Portugal, there are churches just about everywhere you turn, indeed it is considered to be the Portuguese equivalent of Rome.

Apparently founded by the Bracari Celts, Braga is steeped in history, with subsequent occupation by the Romans, Suevi, Visgoths and the Moors. It is the archbishop’s palace which today embodies the sheer scale of ecclesiastic might and importance of the town; of Presidential proportions it is truly impressive.

Braga is also a dynamic commercial centre with numerous, chic boutiques trading alongside the churches and stores selling religious souvenirs and such like.

There are spectacular celebrations in Braga during the Easter period, with the main, spectacular, processional events being in the three days prior to Easter Sunday. There is plenty of interest to see in Braga from the central Praca da Republic which is an arcaded square in the old town, to the Se cathedral dating back to 1070, the Palacio dos Biscainhos with its wonderful examples of Portuguese interior décor, Rococo and Baroc art and the fortress like Archbishops Palace to name but a few examples.

There are numerous characterful cafes in the city and a good compliment of excellent restaurants. Local specialities include caldo de castanhas (chestnut soup), charutos de chila (squash pastries) and rabanadas (milk soaked bread fried and served with cinnamon sauce) for dessert. There is a daily food market and full market on Tuesdays.