Exploring Bragança: A Journey through History and Castles in Northern Portugal

A Journey Through Bragança, Portugal: Exploring History and Castles

The channel "Foreign visitors view" invites you to join a free virtual tour of Portugal. Covering a distance of 2000 kilometers by car, the hosts have explored many interesting places in the country and are ready to share their impressions. Get ready to witness formidable castles, majestic temples, steep mountain slopes, and narrow streets as we explore the historical city of Bragança. Throughout the journey, let's delve into the legends and history of Portugal, understanding its influence and connections with other countries.

Bragança: A Glimpse into Northern Portugal

The northernmost city in Portugal is Bragança, located just 20 kilometers away from Spain. Often overlooked by tourists, Bragança offers a rich historical experience that should not be missed. As we begin our exploration, our virtual tour starts from the hill above the river, where we can catch the first glimpse of the city's main attraction - the Bragança Castle.

A Brief Overview of Portuguese History

Discovering Bragança: Unveiling Portugal's Historic Treasures

The history of Portugal dates back to the Roman times when the province of Galletia was established. After the fall of Rome, the territory was ruled by various Germanic tribes, including the Vandals and the Suevi. In the early 8th century, Muslims occupied most of the Iberian Peninsula, but their presence in the northwestern part was limited due to its climate and lack of resources. This strategic mistake eventually led to the Reconquista, a period when Portugal started to regain its independence.

The Birth of Portugal

In the 9th century, the Kingdom of Asturias gradually expanded and Portugal became a county ruled by Vimara Peres. The county, known as "Condado de Portucale," later gave rise to the name Portugal. Over the years, the county saw various rulers until it became an independent kingdom. In 1143, King Alfonso VII recognized Portugal as a kingdom, and Afonso Henriques, the son of Count Henry of Burgundy, proclaimed himself the first king of Portugal.

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Discovering Bragança Castle

Located at an altitude of 700 meters, Bragança Castle offers a breathtaking view of the city. The castle has an oval layout and consists of a crenelated fortress wall with fifteen towers. It played a significant role during the wars between Portugal and León-Castile, but was gradually destroyed over time. In the early 20th century, the castle was declared a national treasure and began the process of restoration. Today, the castle houses a military museum, while the inner walls have been transformed into shops and cafés, recreating the atmosphere of a medieval city.

Inside the castle, visitors can explore the Church of St. Mary, the oldest church in Bragança, and the Domus Municipalis, a 13th-century building that once served as a meeting place for the nobility. The main gate, St. Anthony's Gate, is protected by two towers and a barbican, providing a glimpse into the castle's defensive features. The donjon, or main tower, stands at a height of 34 meters and offers panoramic views of the surrounding area.

Uncover the Legends of Bragança

The city of Bragança is also known for its legends and historical events. One of the most romantic yet tragic stories is associated with the Church of St. Vicente, where the secret wedding of Don Pedro and Ines de Castro is said to have taken place. Ines de Castro's story has inspired numerous works of art, including operas and plays. The city is also home to a monument dedicated to migration, honoring those who left in search of a better life.

While our virtual tour of Bragança comes to an end, we encourage you to explore more of Portugal's rich heritage. Don't miss the opportunity to visit other cities and delve deeper into the vibrant history of this beautiful country.

If you enjoyed this virtual tour, be sure to like, share, and subscribe to the "Foreign visitors view" channel for more exciting journeys through different cities and countries. Join us as we uncover the hidden gems and historical marvels across the globe!

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Discover the enchanting city of Bragança, where history meets nature. Embark on exhilarating excursions to explore its medieval castle, indulge in local delicacies at the vibrant market, and immerse yourself in the charming streets of the old town. A truly unforgettable experience awaits you in Bragança.

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