Welcome to Guimarães: A Historical Town in Portugal
When it comes to Portugal, the country is home to some of the most stunning landscapes and towns in Europe. One such town is Guimarães, located in the northern part of Portugal. It is a classic Portuguese city, full of interesting historical landmarks, cobbled streets, and cultural attractions.
Guimarães is known as the “Cradle of Portugal” due to its historical significance. It was here that Afonso Henriques declared the independence of Portugal in 1128, thus making it a very important part of the country’s history.
A Brief History of Guimarães
The town of Guimarães was founded in the 10th century by a local count. It was then taken over by the Romans who named it Vimaranes. As the town grew in size, it later became part of the kingdom of Portugal in 1118.
The historical importance of Guimarães stems from the Battle of São Mamede, which took place in 1128. This battle marked the independence of Portugal from the Kingdom of Leon, and Guimarães became the first capital of Portugal. Since then, the city has been an important part of Portuguese history.
Discover the Old Town of Guimarães
The old town of Guimarães is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a great place to explore. It’s a maze of cobbled streets, with colorful buildings and plenty of historical landmarks. One of the main attractions is the Castle of Guimarães, which was built in the 11th century and is the oldest castle in Portugal.
The castle is open to visitors and provides a great view of the city. There are also other attractions in the old town, including the Palace of the Dukes of Bragança, the Igreja de São Miguel church, and the Largo da Oliveira square.
Sample Some of Guimarães’ Culinary Delights
As well as being full of historical attractions, Guimarães is also known for its rich culinary culture. The city is known for its regional dishes, such as the famous bacalhau à Brás (a codfish dish) and the cozido à portuguesa (a stew).
There are plenty of great restaurants to try in Guimarães, such as the traditional cervejarias (beer houses) and the modern eateries. There are also plenty of cafes and bars to enjoy some local Portuguese wine and snacks.
Enjoy the Great Outdoors in Guimarães
One of the best things about Guimarães is its proximity to some stunning outdoor attractions. The city is surrounded by hills and mountains, offering plenty of opportunities for outdoor activities such as hiking and cycling.
The city is also home to the Parque Natural de Alvão, a protected nature reserve with plenty of trails and great views. Another great spot is the Parque da Penha, which is located on a hill overlooking the city.
Visit the Festivals and Markets of Guimarães
Guimarães is a vibrant city and there are always plenty of events and festivals to attend. The most famous is the Festa das Cruzes (Feast of the Crosses) which takes place every year in May. This is a celebration of the town’s traditional religious customs and features a procession of crosses, music, and dancing.
The city also has a number of markets, such as the weekly market at Plataforma das Artes e Criatividade, where you can find fresh produce, local crafts, and more.
Conclusion
Guimarães is a town that beautifully blends its rich history with a lively present. From the historic significance of the old town to the natural beauty surrounding it, Guimarães offers a diverse range of experiences for visitors. Whether you’re exploring the medieval streets, savoring traditional Portuguese cuisine, or immersing yourself in the cultural festivals, Guimarães welcomes you with open arms to discover the cradle of Portugal.