Guimarães: Where Portugal Was Born, and Still Feels Alive

If there is a place that seems modest at first glance but reveals the full weight of its history upon closer look, it is Guimarães.

The Cradle of a Nation

Guimarães, a city in northern Portugal just about half an hour’s drive from Porto, is often called the cradle of the nation. This title is no coincidence. It was here that Afonso Henriques—later known as Dom Afonso I, the first King of Portugal—was born. In the 12th century, he initiated the process that led to the creation of an independent Portuguese state.

Decisions that shaped the country were made here, in hidden chapels and fortified walls. And the moment you step into the historic center, it becomes clear why this city holds such importance.

Streets That Remember Centuries

The streets are narrow, paved with large stone blocks that seem to retain the memory of thousands of footsteps taken over centuries. On small squares, flowers hang from windows, while elderly men play dominoes on terraces bathed in the morning sun.

Walking slowly uphill, between shaded façades scented with old Europe and the past, you reach the silhouette that dominates the city.

Castelo de Guimarães and the Beginning of Everything

The Castle of Guimarães (Castelo de Guimarães) rises firmly against the sky. Its massive stone walls, dating back to the 10th century, still feel protective—almost as if they continue to guard the identity of Portugal.

Just a few steps away stands the Chapel of São Miguel, a small stone building with simple doors. Inside, the light is dim, and on the floor lies a stone believed to have been touched by King Afonso Henriques during his baptism. Locals will tell you, “This is where everything begins.” And in that moment, time truly seems to stand still.

Ducal Splendour and Noble Power

A completely different energy surrounds the Paço dos Duques de Bragança, a 15th-century palace built for Afonso, Duke of Bragança. Its architecture blends Gothic and Renaissance styles: massive stone walls, tall chimneys, towers, and arcaded courtyards create the impression of a powerful stronghold.

Inside, wooden ceilings shaped like inverted ship hulls, tapestries, and medieval weaponry speak of aristocratic luxury and authority. Today, the palace is one of the city’s key historical landmarks and also serves as the official secondary residence of the President of Portugal.

Monte da Penha: Above the City

Rising above Guimarães is Monte da Penha, one of the city’s most recognizable landmarks and an important tourist and spiritual destination.

At the top stands the Sanctuary of Penha (Santuário da Penha), a revered site visited throughout the year. The hill can be reached on foot, by car, or via cable car, which connects the city center with the summit and offers breathtaking panoramic views. Known for its viewpoints, landscaped parks, forest trails, and striking granite formations, Monte da Penha is considered one of the true symbols of Guimarães.

Culture Between Tradition and the Contemporary

During our visit to the “cradle of Portugal,” we explored two museums. One is the Centro Internacional das Artes José de Guimarães (CIAJG), a contemporary art center dedicated to the work of José de Guimarães and international modern art. It is known for exhibitions that connect contemporary expression with archaic and non-European cultures.

The second is the Museu da Cidade, where multimedia installations present the development of Guimarães through the centuries. The city’s vibrant cultural life can also be felt at Teatro Jordão, a venue for theatre performances, concerts, and local events, where tradition meets contemporary artistic expression.

Football as Identity

As mentioned earlier, Guimarães is also a city where football holds a special place. Vitória SC unites generations of supporters and often becomes the center of social life, showing how sport and local identity go hand in hand.

Taste of the North: Food and Wine

Local gastronomy and wines further enrich the experience. Visitors should not miss northern Portuguese specialties: cod prepared in countless ways, robust beef dishes, and traditional sweets such as tortas de Guimarães. All of this pairs perfectly with vinho verde, a light and refreshing wine that adds authenticity to every meal.

Thanks to the Guimarães Tourism Board, we had an unforgettable experience: a visit to the small village of Caldas das Taipas and the winery Quinta da Cancela. There, we were welcomed by Arthur Faria Carvalho, owner and heir to an estate where excellent wine has been produced since 1720—now across six generations.

Each carefully prepared homemade dish was paired with a different wine, making it hard to decide which was better. The experience was elevated by the authentic atmosphere of the estate, preserved in its original form for more than 300 years. Special thanks go to Catarina and Paolo from the Guimarães Tourism Board, who guided us through this memorable journey.

A City That Becomes a Feeling

The heart of Guimarães lies in its streets, hills, history, architecture, and the energy of its local community—in the harmony between tradition, art, and everyday life.

Guimarães does not captivate you instantly. It does so quietly, but completely. And once you leave, you realize you remember it not merely as a destination, but as a feeling: warmth, history, natural beauty, and a rare sense of calm found only in places that have known who they are for more than a thousand years.

A warm recommendation: if you ever get the chance—by accident or by intention—visit Guimarães, and be prepared to fall in love forever.

Bonus Tip

In Guimarães, it is best not to mention the neighboring city of Braga. Even in the city museum, a sign reads:

Neither a good wind nor a good marriage comes from Braga. Guimarães and Braga: centuries-old rivals.