If you want to visit one of the most historically important cities in the whole of Portugal, then you need to check out the small city of Guimarães. The first king of Portugal chose Guimarães as the capital city of Portugal following the 1128 Battle of São Mamede. Guimarães is known as the birthplace of Portugal and it has been inhabited since before the Roman times. Today the city is a UNESCO heritage site.
All throughout the town of Guimarães you will find winding cobblestone streets that are line with some of the oldest buildings in the nation. These roads make their way to the city center where you will find the city’s main square which is known as Largo da Oliveira and of course the Ducal Palace which was built back in the 15th century.. Since 1452, this square has been the home to the annual Festas Gualterianas that occurs during the first weekend of August. It is a very lively event with a parade, costumes, art and handicrafts all over the town.
In the 10th century, the Castelo de Guimarães was first built and dominated the city skyline for centuries. It was later expanded back in the 12th century to include the palace and arsenal. It was the home and birthplace of the first king of Portugal. The 14th century Mosteiro de Nossa Senhora da Oliveira is well-known for its bell tower and a mysterious history that surrounds the olive tree which can be found today at the front of the church. For a true sight from the past, one can see the mail tunic that was used by King João I during the Battle of Aljubarrota in the Museu de Alberto Sampaio.
Many visitors who come to Guimarães cannot resist taking a ride on the Teleférico da Penha cable car which takes them to the top of Penha hill where one can see some of the most impressive views of the city and the surrounding countryside.
Photo by bilderflut photography
