Guimarães Castle, Portugal
Guimarães Castle stands as a proud symbol of Portugal’s origins, a medieval fortress guarding the birthplace of a nation. Its ancient walls echo stories of kings, battles, and the dawn of Portuguese identity.
Guimarães is one of Portugal’s most important historical cities, having played a crucial role in the country’s formation. It has been around for over a millennium, and its historic center has been listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 2001, making it one of the region’s biggest tourist attractions. Its streets and monuments exude history and enchant visitors.
Guimarães Castle was built in the 10th century by Countess Mumadona to defend the population from Muslim attacks, and was later built after the Walls of Guimarães.
The Palace of the Dukes of Bragança was built in the 15th century by Afonso, 1st Duke of Bragança, and due to its subsequent abandonment, it was rebuilt in the 1930s.
The Chapel of São Miguel do Castelo is a late Romanesque chapel, built in the 13th century, where, according to legend, Afonso Henriques was baptized.